Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read
Is BHT vegan?
Also known as: Butylated hydroxytoluene, E321
E-number: E321
Vegan
Suitable for a vegan diet.
Yes — BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is entirely lab-synthesized from petroleum-derived chemicals.
01 · The basics
What is BHT?
A synthetic antioxidant used to preserve the freshness, color, and flavor of packaged foods and cosmetics.
02 · The source
Where it comes from
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) is entirely lab-synthesized from petroleum-derived chemicals. No animals are involved in its production.
03 · Alternatives
Best vegan alternatives
Tocopherols (Vitamin E)
Check Price on AmazonRosemary extract
Check Price on AmazonAffiliate links — VegOmm may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
Frequently asked
FAQ
Is BHT vegan friendly?
From an animal-rights perspective, yes. It is purely synthetic. However, some health-conscious vegans avoid it due to controversies surrounding its long-term health effects.
Why is it in my cereal packaging?
It is often sprayed directly onto the inner plastic liner of cereal boxes to prevent the fats in the cereal from oxidizing and going rancid.
Commonly found in
More in this category
Other preservative ingredients
E1105 (Lysozyme)
A preservative often used to prevent bacterial growth in cheeses.
Dodecyl Gallate
An antioxidant used to prevent fats and oils from oxidizing and going rancid.
TBHQ (Tert-Butylhydroquinone)
A synthetic antioxidant used to extend the shelf life of oily and fatty foods by preventing oxidation.
Keep exploring
Related ingredients
Allura Red AC
A popular synthetic red food dye used to give foods and drinks a prominent red or pink color.
Tartrazine
A bright lemon-yellow synthetic food dye commonly used in processed foods, drinks, and medications.
Brilliant Blue FCF
A synthetic blue dye used in foods, cosmetics, and dietary supplements to achieve a vibrant blue hue.
What's next