Butylated hydroxytoluene
Butylated Hydroxytoluene
Butylated Hydroxytoluene (pronounced: byoo-tuh-lay-ted hahy-drok-see-toh-loo-een), often abbreviated as BHT, is a synthetic antioxidant used in various industries, including food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, to prevent oxidation and extend shelf life.
Etymology
The term "Butylated Hydroxytoluene" is derived from its chemical structure. It is a derivative of Toluene, a hydrocarbon, which has been modified (or "butylated") with the addition of a Hydroxy (OH) group and a Butyl group.
Related Terms
- Antioxidant: A substance that inhibits oxidation, a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals, thereby reducing the risk of chain reactions that may damage the cells of organisms.
- Toluene: A colorless, water-insoluble liquid with the smell associated with paint thinners, a mono-substituted benzene derivative.
- Hydroxy: A functional group consisting of a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an oxygen atom.
- Butyl: A four-carbon alkyl radical or substituent.
Usage
Butylated Hydroxytoluene is widely used in the food industry to prevent rancidity. It's found in a variety of food products, including cereals, snack foods, and processed meats. In the cosmetic industry, BHT is used in lipsticks and moisturizers, among other products. It's also used in pharmaceuticals to help maintain the potency of active ingredients.
Safety and Health Effects
While BHT is generally recognized as safe for consumption in small amounts, there have been concerns about potential health effects. Some studies have suggested that high doses of BHT may have toxic effects, although these findings are not universally accepted.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Butylated hydroxytoluene
- Wikipedia's article - Butylated hydroxytoluene
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