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Butylated Hydroxyanisole, Butyl Hydroxy Anisole, E320, BHA, 25013-16-5

Butylated Hydroxyanisole, Butyl Hydroxy Anisole, E320, BHA, 25013-16-5

BUTYLATED HYDROXYANISOLE (BHA - E320)

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

Parameter Information
Product Name Butylated Hydroxyanisole
Chemical Name 2(3)-tert-Butyl-4-methoxyphenol
Synonyms (Turkish) Bütillenmiş Hidroksianisol, BHA, Bütil Hidroksi Anisol, Antioksidan B
Synonyms (English) Butylated Hydroxyanisole, BHA, Antioxyne B, 2(3)-tert-Butyl-4-hydroxyanisole
E Number E320
CAS Number 25013-16-5
Molecular Formula C₁₁H₁₆O₂
Molecular Weight 180.247 g/mol
Appearance White to pale yellow, crystalline flakes or waxy solid
Odor Slight aromatic odor

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

BHA (Mixture of 2- and 3-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol)

Dominant Isomer (3-tert-butyl-4-hydroxyanisole - approximately 90%):

              OCH₃
                |
        OH      |
         |      |
    (CH₃)₃C—C₆H₃—C—H
                |
                H

Structure Description:

  • Monohydric phenolic antioxidant.

  • Mixture of 2-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol and 3-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol.

  • Approximate isomer ratio: 90% 3-tert-butyl isomer and 10% 2-tert-butyl isomer.

  • Exhibits free radical scavenging and stabilizing properties.

SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DESCRIPTION

Parameter Information
Product Name Butylated Hydroxyanisole
Chemical Name 2(3)-tert-Butyl-4-methoxyphenol
Synonyms (Turkish) Bütillenmiş Hidroksianisol, BHA, Bütil Hidroksi Anisol, Antioksidan B
Synonyms (English) Butylated Hydroxyanisole, BHA, Antioxyne B, 2(3)-tert-Butyl-4-hydroxyanisole
E Number E320
CAS Number 25013-16-5
Molecular Formula C₁₁H₁₆O₂
Molecular Weight 180.247 g/mol
Chemical Class Phenolic antioxidant; Monohydric phenol; Food additive
Source Synthetic (tert-butylation and methylation reactions)
Physical State (20°C) Solid (waxy, crystalline flakes or powder)
Odor Slight aromatic odor
Color White to pale yellow
Taste Slightly bitter, astringent

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Value Test Method / Note
Appearance White to pale yellow crystalline flakes or waxy solid Visual
Odor Slight aromatic odor Olfactometric
Molecular Weight 180.247 g/mol Calculated
Density (20°C) ~1.00 g/cm³ ASTM D4052
Melting Point 58 – 60°C DSC
Boiling Point 264 – 270°C (decomposes)
Flash Point ~131°C
Solubility in Water Insoluble General Method
Solubility in Ethanol Freely soluble General Method
Solubility in Methanol Freely soluble General Method
Solubility in Propylene Glycol Freely soluble General Method
Solubility in Fats/Oils Soluble General Method
Log P (Octanol/Water) ~3.5
pH (Saturated Solution) ~5.5 – 6.5 pH Meter
Stability Sensitive to light, heat, and oxidizing agents; Degrades upon prolonged exposure to sunlight
Antioxidant Activity Very high; One of the most effective food-grade antioxidants
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Sulfated Ash ≤ 0.1% Gravimetric
Loss on Drying ≤ 0.5% Gravimetric (105°C)
Assay (BHA) ≥ 98.5% – 100.5% HPLC / Titrimetric

SECTION 3: BHA (E320) vs OTHER SYNTHETIC ANTIOXIDANTS

Property BHA (E320) Propyl Gallate (E310) BHT (E321) TBHQ (E319)
CAS Number 25013-16-5 121-79-9 128-37-0 1948-33-0
Solubility Fat-soluble Fat-soluble Fat-soluble Fat-soluble
Antioxidant Power Very high Very high High Very high
Heat Stability Good Moderate Good Excellent
Color Stability Good Moderate (may cause discoloration) Good Good
Water Solubility Insoluble Low Insoluble Low
Safety Profile Controversial/Carcinogenic concern Moderate Controversial/Toxicity concern Acceptable
Primary Use Fats, oils, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals Fats, oils, cosmetics Fats, oils, feed Frying oils

SECTION 4: MECHANISM OF ACTION

Property Description
Antioxidant Mechanism Scavenges and stabilizes free radicals; Reacts with lipid peroxyl radicals to break the chain reaction; Prevents lipid peroxidation.
Phenolic Structure Monohydric phenolic structure; Forms stable phenoxyl radicals by donating hydrogen atoms; Neutralizes free radicals.
Lipophilic Character High fat solubility; Excellent distribution in oil and fat systems.
Metal Chelation Limited metal chelation properties; Recommended for use with synergists like citric acid.
Synergistic Effect Exhibits synergistic effects with other antioxidants (BHT, ascorbic acid, citric acid, tocopherols).
Autoxidation Inhibition Preserves the taste and color of volatile oils; Protects fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K); Prevents hardening of foods.

SECTION 5: PRODUCTION PROCESS

Method 1: tert-Butylation of p-Methoxyphenol

Reaction: p-Methoxyphenol + Isobutylene / tert-Butyl alcohol → BHA (2- and 3-isomer mixture)

Description: p-Methoxyphenol is reacted with isobutylene or tert-butyl alcohol in the presence of an acid catalyst (sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid); The reaction yields a mixture of 2-tert-butyl and 3-tert-butyl isomers (10:90 ratio); The product is purified by distillation and crystallization.

Method 2: Alkylation of Hydroquinone Methyl Ether

Process: Hydroquinone → Methylation → p-Methoxyphenol → Alkylation → BHA

Description: Hydroquinone methyl ether is alkylated with tert-butyl alcohol or isobutylene; Acid catalyst is used; Isomer mixture is obtained; Purification yields a white to pale yellow crystalline product.

SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

Property Description
Antioxidant (Food) Prevents oxidation of fats and oils; Extends shelf life of fatty foods; Prevents rancidity; Protects fat-soluble vitamins.
Cosmetic Ingredient Prevents oxidation in cosmetic products; Extends shelf life; Used in creams, lotions, makeup products.
Pharmaceutical Stabilizer Prevents oxidation in drug formulations (vitamin D3, isotretinoin, lovastatin, simvastatin); Stabilizes active ingredients.
Industrial Stabilizer Prevents oxidation in rubber and petroleum products; Used as an antioxidant in biodiesel production; Improves fuel quality.
Feed Additive Prevents oxidation in animal feed; Used in the production of dry solid feed pellets.
Synergistic Agent Activity increases when used with BHT, ascorbic acid, citric acid, and tocopherols.

SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS

Industry / Application Function Typical Use
Food Industry (E320) Antioxidant, preservative Edible oils, fats, margarine, meat products, snack foods, chewing gum, breakfast cereals; Maximum 200 mg/kg fat (varies by country)
Cosmetics Antioxidant, shelf-life extender Creams, lotions, makeup products, lipsticks, sunscreens; Dosage: 0.01 – 0.1%
Pharmaceutical Stabilizer, antioxidant Vitamin D3, isotretinoin, lovastatin, simvastatin containing drugs; Creams, gels, gelatin capsules, tablets; Dosage: 0.01 – 0.1%
Animal Feed Antioxidant Animal feeds, dry pet foods; Dosage: 50 – 150 mg/kg feed (subject to regulations)
Industrial Stabilizer Rubber products, petroleum products, biodiesel, lubricants, plastics; Dosage: 0.1 – 0.5%
Volatile Oils Antioxidant Most effective antioxidant for preserving the taste and color of volatile oils

SECTION 8: SAMPLE FORMULATIONS

Oil Antioxidant Blend:

Component Amount
BHA (E320) 100 – 200 mg/kg oil
Vegetable Oil 100%
Citric Acid (Synergist) 50 – 100 mg/kg oil
BHT (optional, synergist) 50 – 100 mg/kg oil

Instructions: Dissolve BHA in oil with gentle heating (40-50°C); Add citric acid and/or BHT for synergistic effect; Protect from light and heat.

Cosmetic Cream (100 g):

Component Amount
BHA (E320) 0.01 – 0.1 g
Emulsifiers As required
Oils (Carrier) As required
Water To 100 g
Preservatives As required

Instructions: Dissolve BHA in oil phase; Emulsify with water phase; Cool with mixing.

SECTION 9: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS

Parameter Food Grade (E320) Pharmaceutical Grade Cosmetic Grade Test Method
Appearance White to pale yellow flakes or waxy solid White to pale yellow flakes White to pale yellow flakes Visual
Assay (BHA) ≥ 98.5% – 100.5% ≥ 99.0% ≥ 98.5% HPLC / Titrimetric
Melting Point 58 – 60°C 58 – 60°C 58 – 60°C DSC
Loss on Drying ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.5% Gravimetric
Sulfated Ash ≤ 0.1% ≤ 0.1% ≤ 0.1% Gravimetric
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm ≤ 5 ppm ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 2 ppm ≤ 1 ppm ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 2 ppm ≤ 1 ppm ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Isomer Ratio (3-tert / 2-tert) ≥ 90:10 ≥ 90:10 ≥ 90:10 HPLC
Particle Size Customer requirement Customer requirement Customer requirement Sieve / Laser

SECTION 10: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

Parameter Value
Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) ~ 2,000 – 5,000 mg/kg (low to moderate toxicity)
Acute Dermal Toxicity Low toxicity; Mild irritation
Skin Irritation Mild irritation; Sensitization possible
Eye Irritation Mild irritation
Chronic Toxicity Liver and kidney effects at high doses
Carcinogenicity According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH/NTP) report, there is evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals; It is stated that it may be a human carcinogen.
Mutagenicity Some studies have shown mutagenic potential
Reproductive Toxicity Reproductive effects may be observed at high doses
Allergenicity May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) 0 – 0.5 mg/kg body weight (EFSA) / 0.5 mg/kg (JECFA)
Special Toxicity Note Due to carcinogenic concerns, its use is restricted or banned in many countries.; Use as a food additive is restricted in the European Union; Completely banned in some countries; Not recommended for use in children's foods; Caution for pregnant/nursing women.

SECTION 11: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING

GHS Classification (in accordance with CLP and UN GHS):

Hazard Class Category H-Statement
Skin Irritation Category 2 H315
Eye Irritation Category 2 H319
Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) Category 3 H335
Serious Eye Damage Category 1 H318 (in some formulations)

Signal Word: WARNING

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)

Hazard Statements (H-Codes):

Code Statement
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H335 May cause respiratory irritation
H318 Causes serious eye damage (in some formulations)

NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:

Health Flammability Reactivity Special
2 1 0 -
(Moderate health hazard) (Combustible) (Stable) (None)

SECTION 12: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

Code Statement
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray
P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection
P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water
P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and continue rinsing
P312 Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell
P332+P313 If skin irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention
P337+P313 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention
P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse
P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed
P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations

SECTION 13: FIRST AID MEASURES

Exposure Route Action to Take
Inhalation Remove to fresh air immediately. If respiratory irritation develops, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, get medical attention.
Eye Contact Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Ingestion Rinse mouth. Drink plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting. If large quantities are ingested or if feeling unwell, seek medical attention.

SECTION 14: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Combustible organic material. Dust cloud may form explosive mixture with air (if finely dispersed).
Hazards Arising from Fire Thermal decomposition produces carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and irritating fumes.
Suitable Extinguishing Media Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder, foam.
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media Water jet (may spread dust)
Special Protective Equipment Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing.
Special Precautions Prevent dust from entering sewers and waterways. Avoid dust cloud formation.

SECTION 15: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Parameter Information
Storage Conditions Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; PROTECT FROM LIGHT and HEAT; Keep away from direct sunlight, heat, and oxidizing agents.
Container Requirements Tightly closed, light-proof, moisture-proof containers (aluminum foil-lined bags, HDPE containers, amber glass).
Materials to Protect From Light, heat, strong oxidizing agents, moisture, combustible materials
Shelf Life 24 – 48 months (in unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions).
Stability Note Sensitive to light and heat; Degrades upon prolonged exposure to sunlight; Keep container tightly closed.
Special Storage Requirements Store in a dark, cool, dry place; Avoid exposure to air, light, and oxidizing agents.

SECTION 16: PACKAGING OPTIONS

Packaging Type Quantity Material
Multi-layer Paper Bag 10 kg, 20 kg, 25 kg PE-lined kraft paper bag (moisture-proof)
Plastic Bag 5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg PE bag (inner-lined, sealed, moisture-proof)
Fiber Drum 20 kg, 25 kg PE-lined fiberboard drum
Plastic Drum 25 kg, 50 kg HDPE / Polypropylene (moisture-proof)
Aluminum Foil Bag 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg Aluminum foil laminated bag (light and moisture-proof)
FIBC / Big Bag 500 kg, 1000 kg PE-lined, moisture-resistant PP woven bag

SECTION 17: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Parameter Information
UN Number Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Hazard Class Not applicable
Packing Group Not applicable
ADR/RID Not regulated
IMDG Code Not regulated (non-hazardous)
IATA (Air) Not regulated (non-hazardous)
Marine Pollutant No
Transport Temperature Ambient temperature; Protect from moisture and light.

SECTION 18: REGULATORY STATUS

Region / Authority Status
European Union Use as a food additive is restricted; Banned or strictly limited in many EU countries.
USA (TSCA) Listed (TSCA Inventory)
USA (FDA) GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe); Food additive; 21 CFR 172.110, 21 CFR 172.115
USA (NIH/NTP) Reported as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" (carcinogenic findings in experimental animals)
Turkey Food additive E320; Ministry of Agriculture approval required; Use is restricted, limited to specific products.
IARC Group 2B - Possibly carcinogenic to humans (limited evidence)
NTP Listed as "Reasonably Anticipated to be a Carcinogen"
OSHA Regulated as irritant
California (Prop 65) Listed - Known to cause cancer
Halal Yes (with certification)
Kosher Yes (with certification)
Vegan Yes

SECTION 19: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

Type Name
Turkish Names Bütillenmiş Hidroksianisol, Bütil Hidroksi Anisol, BHA, Antioksidan B
English Names Butylated Hydroxyanisole, BHA, Antioxyne B, Butyl Hydroxy Anisol
Chemical Names 2(3)-tert-Butyl-4-methoxyphenol; tert-Butyl-4-hydroxyanisole; 2-tert-Butyl-4-methoxyphenol; 3-tert-Butyl-4-methoxyphenol
E Number E320
CAS Number 25013-16-5
Molecular Formula C₁₁H₁₆O₂
HS Code 2907.19
Synonyms tert-Butyl-4-methoxyphenol, Antioxyne B, Tenox BHA

SECTION 20: SUMMARY TABLE

Parameter Value
Product Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA - E320)
CAS Number 25013-16-5
E Number E320
Molecular Formula C₁₁H₁₆O₂
Molecular Weight 180.247 g/mol
Appearance White to pale yellow crystalline flakes or waxy solid
Melting Point 58 – 60°C
Primary Function Antioxidant, preservative
Main Application Areas Food (E320), cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, animal feed, industrial
Shelf Life 24 – 48 months
GHS Signal Word WARNING
UN Number Not regulated
Special Properties Monohydric phenolic antioxidant; Fat-soluble; Strong free radical scavenger; ADI: 0-0.5 mg/kg; Reported as possible human carcinogen by U.S. NIH/NTP; Restricted in EU, GRAS in USA

SECTION 21: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

  • CARCINOGENIC CONCERN: The U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH/NTP) reports that BHA has carcinogenic findings in experimental animals and states that it may be a human carcinogen. Classified as IARC Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans).

  • Listed as a carcinogen on the California Prop 65 list.

  • Causes skin irritation (H315) and serious eye irritation (H319). Wear protective equipment.

  • May cause respiratory irritation (H335). Avoid inhalation of dust.

  • Sensitive to light, heat, and oxidizing agents.

  • Combustible – keep away from open flames and high heat.

  • Use as a food additive is restricted or banned in the EU. Completely banned in some countries.

  • Not recommended for use in children's foods.

  • Caution for pregnant/nursing women.

  • Exhibits synergistic effects with other antioxidants (BHT, ascorbic acid, citric acid).

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Food Industry (E320): Use as antioxidant in fats and oils; Edible oils, margarine, meat products, snack foods; Adjust usage levels according to national regulations (typically maximum 200 mg/kg fat) ; Dissolve in oil with gentle heating; Combine with BHT, ascorbic acid, or citric acid for synergistic effect.

  • Cosmetics: Use as antioxidant; Creams, lotions, makeup products; Dosage 0.01-0.1%; Dissolve in oil phase; Extends shelf life; Prevents oxidation.

  • Pharmaceutical: Use as stabilizer and antioxidant; Vitamin D3, isotretinoin, lovastatin, simvastatin containing drugs; Dosage 0.01-0.1%; Stabilizes active ingredients; Creams, gels, capsules, tablets.

  • Animal Feed: Use as antioxidant; Dosage 50-150 mg/kg feed; Subject to regulatory control; Check regional regulations.

  • Industrial: Use as stabilizer; Rubber, petroleum products, biodiesel; Dosage 0.1-0.5%; Improves fuel quality in biodiesel production.

  • Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust formation; Use dust masks (N95/FFP2) and protective equipment.

  • Personal Protective Equipment: Dust mask (N95/FFP2 or higher), safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene), protective clothing.

  • Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using.

  • Storage: Store in tightly closed, light-proof, moisture-proof containers; Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from light, heat, and oxidizing agents; Shelf life: 24-48 months under proper conditions.

  • Spill Management: Sweep or vacuum (HEPA) and place in suitable sealed container; Avoid dust formation; Do not allow entry into drains or waterways.

  • Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Non-hazardous waste; Can be incinerated in compliance with regulations.

DETECTION METHODS:

Method Description Advantages Disadvantages
HPLC Most common for food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals High sensitivity, reliable, isomer separation High cost, requires expertise
GC Volatile derivatives analysis Detects very low concentrations Complex sample preparation
UV-Vis Spectrophotometry UV absorption of phenolic structure Fast, low cost Low selectivity, interference
LC-MS/MS High-sensitivity quantitative analysis Very low detection limits, high specificity High cost, requires expertise
Electrochemical Sensors Rapid screening method Fast, portable Limited outside laboratory

BHA (E320) vs ALTERNATIVES COMPARISON:

Product Chemical Name / E Code Application Strength Weakness Status
BHA (E320) Butylated Hydroxyanisole Fatty foods, cosmetics, pharma Cheap, widespread, strong antioxidant Carcinogenic concern, banned in some countries Restricted in Turkey, restricted/banned in EU, GRAS in USA
Propyl Gallate (E310) Propyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate Fatty foods, cosmetics, pharma Strong antioxidant, versatile Side effects, limited food use Restricted in Turkey, tight in EU
BHT (E321) Butylated Hydroxytoluene Fatty foods, cosmetics, feed Low cost, high stability Toxicity concerns, banned in some markets Allowed in Turkey, restricted in EU
TBHQ (E319) Tertiary Butylhydroquinone Frying oils, food Excellent heat stability Safety concerns Banned in some countries, allowed in EU
Tocopherols (E306-309) Vitamin E natural derivatives Food, cosmetics, pharma Natural, consumer-friendly Higher cost, lower stability Widely accepted
Ascorbic Acid (E300) Vitamin C Food (water phase), cosmetics Natural, safe Ineffective in fatty products Widely accepted

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing the suitability for their own applications and for complying with all local, regional, and national regulations. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Due to the carcinogenic risk, particular caution is advised regarding the use of BHA, and regulatory requirements should be closely monitored.

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