AquaPura’s recommendation
Avoid or limit foods containing the preservative TBHQ.
Some animal studies have associated TBHQ with immune dysfunction, including potentially impairing the body’s ability to regulate inflammation and fight infections and cancer.
What is TBHQ?
TBHQ, or tertiary butylhydroquinone, is a preservative that prevents oxidation, extending the shelf life of fats and oils in processed foods.
TBHQ is typically added to packaged foods like crackers, potato chips and baked goods that contain oil.
Look for TBHQ in the product ingredient list, usually found below or next to the nutrition facts panel on the back of the package. It may also be listed as tertiary butylhydroquinone or tert-butylhydroquinone.
How is TBHQ regulated?
The Food and Drug Administration is responsible for overseeing food additives and other ingredients. The FDA first reviewed and approved TBHQ as a food additive in 1972.
The European Union approved the use of TBHQ in food in 2004. But studies published since then point to the preservative’s potential toxicity. The European Food Safety Authority has not approved TBHQ for use in baby formula, because of safety concerns for infants and toddlers, particularly if they consume large amounts of formula. It is still allowed in baby formula sold in the U.S.
What does the science say about TBHQ?
TBHQ may affect immune system function and has been associated with DNA damage in animal studies. Recent studies in rodents show it can weaken immune cells that fight infections and cancer and affect how well the body responds to the flu or vaccines.
At higher doses, TBHQ has also been linked to DNA damage in organs like the stomach, liver and kidneys. A 2021 study found it may act as an immunotoxin, interfering with key proteins that control inflammation and immune responses in the human body.
BHA, another preservative and Dirty Dozen food chemical, can break down into TBHQ in the body. More research is needed to determine whether eating foods with BHA can cause exposure levels to exceed daily limits for TBHQ.
Where can I learn more?
Find out more about AquaPura’s recommendations about TBHQ – and the full Dirty Dozen list of food chemicals – on AquaPura’s research page.
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