Preservation vs. Health: Are BHT & BHA Worth the Risk?

Chances are, if you read nootropic labels, you've come across the acronym BHA or BHT (or perhaps even both on the same label). But their presence isn't limited to nootropics.

From potato chips and packaged baked goods to processed meats, instant soups, and fast food, BHA & BHT are everywhere. Why? Because these are two of the most commonly used preservatives to boost flavor or extend shelf life.¹

Yet, an increasing number of health-conscious consumers question the safety of these food additives. It's an understandable concern.

Research leads to conflicting conclusions.

Here's a puzzler for you: Which food additives got the green light from the Food and Drug Administration as 'generally recognized as safe,' yet the National Institutes of Health labels them as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen?”*

If BHA & BHT came to mind, you're spot on.

Both BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) have been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. However:

The oxidative properties (or by-products) of BHA & BHT could play a role in some serious health concerns. Interestingly, these same reactions might help counteract oxidative stress and protect cells from oxidative damage.^2,3 In a way, BHA & BHT function similarly to Vitamin E (another antioxidant commonly used as a preservative).*

The exact mechanisms remain a topic of ongoing research.

How is this even possible? Researchers are actively looking into this. In fact, many ongoing studies have shown mixed results.

→ Some suggest that low doses of BHA could harm cells, while higher concentrations might offer protection. Other studies have presented completely opposite findings.*²

→ There is also evidence that some may have difficulty metabolizing BHA & BHT, resulting in health and behavior changes.⁴ At the same time, BHA & BHT may have antiviral and antimicrobial activities.*

We chose to stay away from potentially dangerous excipients.

At HCF®, we believe in transparency and making choices that align with our commitment to our customers. This principle is integral to our 7 Advances®.

That’s why our advanced nootropics avoid being formulated with any form of preservatives that could potentially impact your brain system (head, heart, and gut).*

And that’s why (due to the controversies and conflicting studies surrounding BHT and BHA), we have consciously decided not to include these additives in our advanced nootropics. While BHT and BHA are common additives in many nootropic products, they are never included in HCF® products.