Butylated hydroxyanisole
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E320 redirects here. For the automobile, see Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Butylated hydroxyanisole
IUPAC name	2-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole and 3-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole (mixture)
Identifiers
CAS number	[25013-16-5]
Properties
Molecular formula	C11H16O2
Molar mass	180.24 g/mol
Appearance	waxy solid
Melting point	48-55 °C
Boiling point	264-270 °C
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) Infobox references

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is a mixture of two isomeric organic compounds, 2-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole and 3-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole. It is prepared from 4-methoxyphenol and isobutylene. It is a waxy solid that exhibits antioxidant properties.

Like butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), the conjugated aromatic ring of BHA is able to stabilize free radicals, sequestering them. By acting as free radical scavengers, further free radical reactions are prevented.

The National Institutes of Health considers BHA reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.^[1] E number of this food additive is E320.

See also

• Anisole
• Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)

References

• Why are BHA and BHT in foods? Are they safe?

1. ^ "Substance Profiles: Butylated Hydroxyanisole". Report on Carcinogens, Eleventh Edition. National Toxicology Program.

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