FDA BHA Reassessment officially began in February 2026.
The agency issued a Request for Information to evaluate whether BHA remains safe under its current conditions of use based on updated scientific standards and new evidence.
This review is part of the FDA’s broader initiative to reassess chemical additives currently in the food supply.
What Is BHA?
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) is a synthetic antioxidant used to prevent fats and oils from becoming rancid. It has been permitted in the U.S. food supply since:
- 1958 (listed as Generally Recognized as Safe – GRAS)
- 1961 (approved as a food additive)
BHA may be found in:
- Frozen meals
- Breakfast cereals
- Cookies
- Candy
- Ice cream
- Processed meat products
While use has reportedly declined in recent years, it is still present in some packaged foods.
Why the FDA BHA Reassessment Is Happening Now
The National Toxicology Program previously classified BHA as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” based on animal studies.
The FDA states that this reassessment reflects a strengthened, science-based process for reviewing food chemicals already in circulation.
Future reviews are expected to examine:
- BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene)
- Azodicarbonamide (used as a dough conditioner)
This current action does not ban BHA. It begins a scientific review process.
What the FDA BHA Reassessment Means for Consumers
The FDA’s reassessment is an evaluation, not an immediate removal.
The agency will consider:
- Current levels of dietary exposure
- Updated toxicology data
- Modern safety standards
If the ingredient does not meet current safety thresholds, regulatory changes could follow.
Yum’s Note
Staying informed does not require alarm.
It simply encourages awareness.
You can:
- Read ingredient labels
- Rotate packaged food choices
- Prepare more meals at home when possible
- Stay updated through credible sources
As the FDA BHA reassessment continues, updates will likely follow. Consumers who stay informed can better understand how ingredient oversight evolves over time.
If you’re looking for simple, whole-ingredient meal ideas, visit Yum’s Favorites to explore our video recipes.
FDA official BHA reassessment page