Recent FDA Review of BHA
The FDA has recently announced it will reassess butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), a common food additive used to keep products fresh. This additive is found in items like bread, lunch meats, cereals, and snacks. The agency is looking into its safety based on the latest scientific data. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. noted that BHA has been labeled as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” by the National Toxicology Program.
This review is part of a broader evaluation of existing food chemicals already in use. The FDA also plans to examine other additives like ADA and BHT in light of consumer concerns.
What You Should Know About BHA
BHA has been around since 1961 when it was approved after being deemed “generally recognized as safe” by the FDA. However, this classification has come under fire. Kennedy stated that if BHA doesn’t meet today’s safety standards, it should be removed from food products. He calls this reassessment a shift away from trusting the safety of food additives without scrutiny.
Although BHA is listed as a known carcinogen in California, the European Union considers it a potential endocrine disruptor. A 2014 study suggested that while BHA could cause stomach tumors in rats, the risk to humans is minimal. Interestingly, the study even pointed out possible health benefits at low levels.
The FDA has the right to ban ingredients if they are found to be harmful, even in animal studies. Recently, the agency banned Red dye No.3 after careful evaluation.
The last time BHA was reviewed was back in 1978, and the FDA acknowledged that uncertainties still existed but did not take immediate action. With the new review process, they’ll focus on ingredients based on consumer feedback, and BHT is next in line after BHA.
Consumer advocacy groups, like the Environmental Working Group (EWG), have urged the FDA to act more decisively on BHA. They argue that BHA has been controversial for years, with states like West Virginia banning the additive altogether. Grocery chains like Kroger, Aldi, and Hy-Vee have also removed it from their private-label products.
EWG’s vice president, Melanie Benesh, voiced concern that there has been a petition to ban BHA for over 30 years. She emphasized that American consumers deserve quicker action from regulators, not a prolonged decision-making process.
This reassessment highlights the growing public demand for safer food options. As awareness increases, consumers are more likely to scrutinize what goes into their food. The outcome of this review could reshape our food supply and influence how we view food safety.
For more information on BHA’s potential health risks, you can refer to the FDA’s official guidelines here.
