Warning...You May Be Consuming BHT from Your Personal Care Products
- Danny James
- Jan 23
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 20
You may not know that you are likely absorbing BHT through your skin from many of your personal care products. BHT is a synthetic antioxidant that is used to slow the oxidation process (artifically make it last longer). It can be found in not only your food but in personal care products such as moisturizers, even the “all natural” ones like tallow. Now beef tallow is phenomenal for your skin but only if it is grass-fed and FINISHED, otherwise it may contain BHT. Unfortunately, the FDA in the U.S. is behind the 8-ball on this one and still allows it, but it is so potent that it is restricted (considered banned) in Europe for most practical applications because of its health concerns.
Here are just a few of BHT and its adverse health effects:
BHT has been found to be an endocrine disruptor.
Studies have shown that in high doses could also increase the risk of cancer. Does long-term use qualify as a high dose? We think it’s possible.
Long-term exposure to BHT has raised concerns about liver toxicity and damage to internal organs.
BHT does not break down in the environment (ever).
Some parents and health advocate groups believe it contributes to negative behavioral and neurological issues.
The argument for the FDA approved use of BHT is that your food and personal care products only have a small amount. We say it is very risky, and it should not be in used in any amount.
This is why at James Co, we use 100% grass-fed and grass-finished tallow with no additives in our products. Your health matters to us. Join the movement!
SOURCES:
• “Endocrine Disruption and Metabolism: A Comprehensive Study on BHT and its Effects” Toxicological Studies (2014) • “The effect of food preservatives, including BHT, on hyperactivity in children” Journal of Attention Disorders (2007) • “Evaluation of the endocrine-disrupting potential of BHT (Butylated HydroxyToluene)” Toxicology (2002) • “Food additives and child behavior: Links to behavioral disorders and cognitive issues ”Environmental Health Perspectives (2006) • “Long-term toxicity and toxicokinetics of butylated hydroxytoluene in rats” Journal of Applied Toxicology (1990) • “Carcinogenicity studies of BHT in rats and mice” Food and Chemical Toxicology (1982) • “Chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity of butylated hydroxytoluene” Environmental Health Perspectives (1980) • “Hepatotoxicity of BHT in rats and the effects of long-term exposure” Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health (1987)