Allergic to BHA, Now What?

by M.A.
(Chicago, IL, USA)

I just found out that I am allergic to BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole). I went shopping last week to find this preservative in food products which I assumed would be listed, but alas it is nowhere to be found on any products. So my only resolve was searching and I found your site.

So I see the food products that I have seen listed. Is there any other information you can recommend to me to know what I am not to eat? This is a nightmare.

Thanks much

Michelle says: Hi M.A., I got your question in regards to BHA. I did reply to your email, but the email address you gave me didn't work. So, I'm posting your Q and A on this page in hopes that you will see it.

Sorry to hear that you're allergic. It must be so frustrating!

I'm not an expert on BHA so I'm not sure about labeling laws. I would imagine that they would vary across states or provinces. So just because it's on the label doesn't mean that it's not in it.

In the area that I live, I've seen it listed on labels - not necessarily as part of the ingredients list though. It's usually on the top or bottom flap of cereal boxes, or in a separate statement somewhere on the packaging. Usually it's a statement such as, "BHA/BHT have been added to preserve freshness."

The best way to avoid BHA and BHT is to simply avoid all packaged foods and make your own from scratch. It may sound impossible at first. A lot of people don't have the time these days. But it is doable if you're really organized and plan your meals ahead of time.

If you've got a good blender, a food processor, and a slow cooker, you can save yourself a lot of time in the kitchen.

Even if it's not possible right away, maybe it's something you can work towards.

You could try buying packaged foods from the health food store instead. They'll most likely be more expensive, but they may not contain BHT/BHA. That's something you would have to check though, because I'm not exactly sure.

Another option would be to call the companies who make the brands you prefer and ask them if they use these food additives. That way you'll be able to make your own list of foods that are safe and those that aren't.

Well, I hope that helps,

Michelle