E321: BHT
Main role: fat oxidation control
Also listed as: butylated hydroxytoluene
What is E321 (BHT)?
BHT is short for butylated hydroxytoluene, a synthetic antioxidant used to slow oxidative deterioration in specified food applications. It differs from BHA even though their abbreviations look similar. Food uses and food-contact or cosmetic uses need to be evaluated in their own contexts.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is fat oxidation control. An antioxidant additive helps manage oxidation within the food, such as changes in fat, flavor, or color. That technical role is separate from claims that eating the ingredient will provide a particular health benefit.
Food and formulation examples
- Specified fat-containing foods
- Selected chewing-gum formulations
- Antioxidant food preparations
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E321, E 321, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include butylated hydroxytoluene. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Do not transfer a cosmetics or food-packaging claim directly to BHT used as a food additive. The route of exposure, allowed use, and amount are relevant to an assessment.
Is E321 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E321 as Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.