Butylated Hydroxy Toluene (BHT) as a food additive acts as |
antioxidant flavouring agent colouring agent emulsifier |
antioxidant |
Butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) is a food additive that acts as 1. an antioxidant. Antioxidants are substances that prevent the oxidation of food. Oxidation is a chemical process that can cause food to spoil. BHT prevents oxidation by reacting with free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage food. BHT is used in a variety of foods, including cereals, baked goods, snacks, and candy. It is also used in cosmetics and some pharmaceuticals. BHT has been controversial because some studies have linked it to cancer in animals. However, the FDA has concluded that BHT is safe for human consumption at the levels that are typically used in food. Flavoring agent, colouring agent, and emulsifier are not the main functions of BHT in food. Flavoring agents are added to food to improve the taste. Colouring agents are added to food to make it look more appealing. Emulsifiers are added to food to help it mix together evenly. |