Key Facts
- →BHA is listed as 'reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen' by the U.S. National Toxicology Program
- →Nitrites in processed meats can form nitrosamines when heated — probable human carcinogens
- →BHT is banned as a food additive in Japan, Romania, and Sweden
BHA, BHT & TBHQ
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are petroleum-derived antioxidants widely used in chips, cereals, cooking oils, and packaged baked goods. BHA is listed as 'reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen' by the U.S. National Toxicology Program. BHT has been associated with liver and kidney toxicity in high-dose animal studies. TBHQ (tert-butylhydroquinone), used in fast food fryer oils and packaged snacks, has been associated with immune toxicity and vision disturbance in animal studies.
Nitrates & Nitrites
Sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite are used to preserve and color cured meats — bacon, hot dogs, deli meats, and sausages. When heated at high temperatures or combined with stomach acid and amines, nitrites can form nitrosamines — compounds the IARC classifies as probable human carcinogens. The WHO recommends limiting processed meat consumption specifically because of this risk. 'Uncured' meats often use celery powder or celery juice as a nitrate source, which converts identically — a loophole our scanner flags.
Carrageenan
Carrageenan is derived from red seaweed and used as a thickener and stabilizer in dairy products, plant milks, deli meats, and infant formula. While considered GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA, research by Dr. Joanne Tobacman and others suggests that degraded carrageenan (poligeenan) may promote gastrointestinal inflammation and colon cancer cell growth. The National Organic Standards Board voted to remove it from organic products, though it was later reversed.
Sodium Benzoate
Sodium benzoate is a common preservative in acidic foods and beverages — sodas, juices, pickles, and salad dressings. When combined with ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), it can form benzene — a known human carcinogen classified as Group 1 by the IARC. Many juice and soda products contain both ingredients. The FDA has set a limit of 0.1% sodium benzoate in foods but has not banned the combination.