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The Dirty List

The Ingredients the Food Industry Doesn’t Explain.

These are the processed and ultra-processed ingredients that show up in everyday products. What they are, where they hide, what the research says, and what you can use instead. No fear. Just facts.

Harmful Ingredients

Maltodextrin

Bisphenol A (BPA) (can lining chemical)

Titanium Dioxide (E171)

Artificial Sweeteners (Aspartame, Sucralose)

Emulsifiers (Polysorbate 80, CMC)

Potassium Bromate

TBHQ (tert-Butylhydroquinone)

Sodium Nitrite & Nitrates

High-Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)

Azodicarbonamide (ADA)

Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)

Description:

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant derived from petroleum, used to prevent fats and oils from going rancid in processed foods and packaging. It is closely related to BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), and the two are often used together. BHT is also used industrially in jet fuel, rubber, and embalming fluid, which gives context to its chemical potency.

Found In:

  • Breakfast cereals (especially flaked and puffed varieties)
  • Chewing gum
  • Chips, crackers, and snack mixes
  • Butter and shortening
  • Instant mashed potatoes and dehydrated foods
  • Food packaging and cereal box liners (migrates into food)
  • Cosmetics and personal care products

Health Impact:

The National Toxicology Program has found that BHT’s close relative BHA is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen, and BHT has shown similar concerns in animal studies. Research published in the Journal of the American College of Toxicology showed BHT can cause liver and kidney enlargement at moderate doses in rodents. A 1986 study in Carcinogenesis found BHT had tumor-promoting activity in certain organ systems while showing protective effects in others, making it unpredictable. BHT is also an endocrine disruptor, with studies showing it can interfere with thyroid hormone function and reproductive development. Many countries have restricted or banned BHT in food, but it remains fully permitted in the U.S.

Healthier Alternatives:

  • Cereals and snacks preserved with tocopherols (vitamin E)
  • Brands that explicitly state “no BHT” or “no artificial preservatives”
  • Whole-grain oats and homemade granola instead of boxed cereals
  • Fresh-baked goods from bakeries using simple ingredient lists
  • Nuts, seeds, and dried fruit as snack alternatives

Scientific Evidence:

  • National Toxicology Program (NTP, 2021): BHA (closely related to BHT) listed as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” in the Report on Carcinogens
  • Ito et al. (1986, Carcinogenesis): BHT showed tumor-promoting activity in rodent liver and urinary bladder models
  • Lanigan & Yamarik (2002, Journal of the American College of Toxicology): Review documenting liver and kidney effects of BHT at moderate doses in animal studies
  • Pop et al. (2013, Clujul Medical): BHT demonstrated endocrine-disrupting activity, interfering with thyroid hormone levels and reproductive parameters in animal models
Screenshot of Diet Discipline website

Know This ⚠️

Quick Swaps

❌ Boxed cereal with BHT in the packaging liner → ✅ Rolled oats, muesli, or cereals labeled "no BHT"
❌ Chewing gum with BHT → ✅ Natural gum brands (Simply Gum, Pur)
❌ Snack crackers preserved with BHT → ✅ Simple ingredient crackers (Mary's Gone Crackers, Flackers)

Check the cereal box. "BHT added to packaging" still means BHT in your food.