Butylated compounds such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) serve as preservatives and antioxidants in various products, particularly in food and personal care items. It’s important to understand their implications for health and safety. Here’s a detailed overview based on your provided information:
What Are Butylated Compounds?
BHA:
This is primarily an antioxidant and preservative, BHA is used in food, cosmetics, food packaging, and animal feed. It is especially common in products containing oils and fats, including various cosmetic formulations.
BHT:
This is a toluene-based ingredient, BHT is also used as a preservative, with applications in both food and personal care products.
Common Products Containing Butylated Compounds
– Lip products (e.g., lipsticks)
– Hair products
– Makeup items
– Sunscreen
– Antiperspirants and deodorants
– Fragrances
– Creams
How To Identify Butylated Compounds on Labels
– BHA
– BHT
Health Concerns
- Endocrine Disruption:
BHA has been identified by the European Commission on Endocrine Disruption as a human endocrine disruptor.
- Organ-System Toxicity:
Environment Canada classifies BHA as a high priority for human health concern, with studies indicating cytotoxic effects at low doses. BHT is also expected to be toxic or harmful.
- Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity:
Animal studies show that high doses of BHA may cause dysfunction and underdevelopment in reproductive systems, along with changes to hormone levels and sexual maturation.
- Cancer Risks:
BHA is considered reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen based on animal studies. It is included on the California EPA’s Proposition 65 list, necessitating labels on products for lip use, though the evidence of human carcinogenicity remains limited.
Regulatory Landscape
Regulations governing butylated compounds, specifically butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), can vary significantly between countries and organizations. Below are explicit details about regulations in key regions:
United States
- The U.S FDA classifies both BHA and BHT as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) when used in specified amounts in food. The Regulation 21 CFR 172.100 outlines the acceptable food uses of BHA and stipulates maximum use levels for both BHA and BHT in specific food categories.
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): BHA and BHT are subject to evaluation under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) for their effects on health and the environment.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA regulations apply regarding workplace exposure limits, particularly for BHT, as it may pose respiratory irritant hazards.
- California Proposition 65: BHA is listed as a chemical known to cause cancer, leading to specific labeling requirements for products containing it that are intended for use on or around the lips.
European Union:
- BHA and BHT are permitted in cosmetic products up to specific concentrations (typically not exceeding 0.5% for BHA in leave-on products; BHT may have different limits based on its usage).
- REACH Regulation: Under REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), both compounds must be registered if produced in quantities exceeding one ton per year.
Summary of Key Actions to control Butylated chemicals
– Labeling: There are labeling requirements in various jurisdictions that mandate disclosure of BHA and BHT on product labels, especially for cosmetics and food intended for oral use (like lip products).
– Usage Limits: Regulations set forth maximum allowable levels in both food and personal care products.
– Safety Assessments: BHA and BHT undergo periodic safety evaluations to reassess risks based on new scientific data.
These regulations aim to balance the benefits of using these compounds as preservatives against their potential health risks.
How to minimize exposure
Consumers can minimize exposure by carefully reading product labels and choosing formulations that do not contain BHA or BHT.
By staying informed and vigilant about the ingredients in personal care and food products, individuals can make better choices to protect their health.
