Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT); Request for Information

The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) supports the continued authorization of Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) as a safe and technologically necessary antioxidant in the food supply. They argue that BHT is essential for maintaining product quality, reducing food waste, and supporting international trade, particularly within the pork industry.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) urges the FDA to revoke the approval of butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as a food additive. They argue that experimental animal studies provide strong evidence of liver toxicity, tumor-promoting activity, and potential endocrine disruption, which do not meet the standard of reasonable certainty of no harm.

The commenter, a registered nurse and consumer, supports a rigorous and transparent post-market review of BHT. They argue that the FDA should account for cumulative dietary exposure and scientific uncertainties rather than relying on outdated safety assumptions.

The commenter supports the FDA conducting stronger, more frequent, and science-based reviews of BHT and other food additives. They specifically advocate for testing chemicals in combination rather than in isolation and call for increased transparency through updated food labeling statutes.