Full Label

Additives · Preservative

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) (E320)

A synthetic antioxidant that keeps fats from going rancid.

Where it's restricted

US (FDA)Allowed
EUAllowed
West VirginiaBannedfrom 2028-01-01
TexasWarning label requiredfrom 2027-01-01
LouisianaBanned in school mealsfrom 2028-2029 school year
LouisianaWarning label requiredfrom 2028-01-01
What each rule says, with sources
  • US (FDA): Allowed FDA allows it as a preservative. Source
  • EU: Allowed On the EU's list of approved additives as E320. For limited uses. (Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008) Source
  • West Virginia: Banned from 2028-01-01 Food containing it is treated as adulterated in West Virginia from January 1, 2028. (HB 2354 (2025)) Source
  • Texas: Warning label required from 2027-01-01 Labels developed on or after January 1, 2027 must warn that the product contains an ingredient not recommended for consumption in Australia, Canada, the EU or the UK. (SB 25 (2025)) Source
  • Louisiana: Banned in school meals from 2028-2029 school year Banned in Louisiana school food from the 2028-2029 school year (concession stands and vending machines exempt). (SB 14, Act 463 (2025)) Source
  • Louisiana: Warning label required from 2028-01-01 Products containing it must carry a QR code disclosure from January 1, 2028. (SB 14, Act 463 (2025)) Source

Also listed on labels as: BHA, Butylated Hydroxyanisole.

Products that list it

4,628 products in USDA's label data name BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) in their ingredients.

Pizza (1,205)Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats (428)Pepperoni, Salami & Cold Cuts (262)Savoury Bakery Products (240)Other Deli (235)Frozen Dinners & Entrees (144)Popcorn, Peanuts, Seeds & Related Snacks (140)Cookies & Biscuits (134)