Synthetic antioxidants that keep fats from going rancid in cereals, snacks and cosmetics.
Hazard vs risk
BHA is classified as 'possibly carcinogenic to humans' (IARC 2B) based on high-dose animal studies; regulators permit it at low levels with ADIs.
Evidence & sources
IARC classifies BHA as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on animal evidence. Evidence: regulatory. Known: Hazard classification. Unknown: Relevance at dietary exposure is uncertain. Source: International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC Monographs Volume 40 (1986).