FDA Launches Safety Review of BHA Preservative in Common Foods
Federal health officials announced on Tuesday that they will reassess the safety of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), a chemical preservative widely used in foods such as potato chips, cereals, frozen meals, and meat products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a new request for information as part of this comprehensive review, which aims to evaluate whether BHA remains safe under its current conditions of use in food and as a food contact substance.
Background and Regulatory History of BHA
BHA was first listed as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) by the FDA in 1958 and approved as a food additive in 1961. However, since 1991, the National Toxicology Program has classified BHA as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen." This classification has led to ongoing concerns among health advocacy groups, including the Center for Science in the Public Interest, which has long advised consumers to avoid products containing BHA due to studies indicating it causes cancer in laboratory animals like rats, mice, and hamsters.
Additionally, BHA has been listed as a known carcinogen under California's Proposition 65 since 1990, further highlighting potential health risks. Despite these warnings, BHA continues to be present in many foods, including those marketed to children, though package labeling data show a decline in its use in recent years.
FDA's Broader Initiative on Chemical Additives
The reassessment of BHA is part of a wider effort by the FDA to review chemical additives in the U.S. food supply. In May, the agency identified BHA as a top priority for this review. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary emphasized the agency's commitment, stating, "We are taking decisive action to ensure that chemicals in our food supply are not causing harm." This move reflects growing public and scientific scrutiny over food safety and the long-term health impacts of preservatives.
The review will consider updated scientific data and usage patterns to determine if regulatory changes are necessary. The FDA's proactive approach aims to address potential gaps in food safety regulations and protect consumer health in an evolving market.
Implications for Consumers and the Food Industry
As the FDA conducts its review, consumers may become more aware of BHA's presence in processed foods and seek alternatives. Health advocacy groups continue to urge caution, pointing to animal studies that link BHA to cancer. The outcome of this reassessment could lead to stricter labeling requirements, usage limits, or even a ban on BHA in certain products, impacting food manufacturers and retailers.
This development underscores the importance of ongoing research and regulatory oversight in ensuring food safety. With BHA still found in many popular snack foods, the FDA's findings will be closely watched by both the public and industry stakeholders.
