SnoutScanAre BHA and BHT safe for dogs?
They are allowed in pet food at low levels, but there are gentler ways to do the same job, so SnoutScan marks them down.
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) are synthetic antioxidants that stop the fat in a food going rancid. TBHQ and propyl gallate do the same job. They are approved for animal feed within set limits. BHA is listed by the US National Toxicology Program as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen, based on high-dose animal studies. Many makers now use mixed tocopherols (a form of vitamin E) or rosemary extract instead.
How SnoutScan scores BHA and BHT
- Points
- −10
- Highest possible score
- No cap
Any of these takes 10 points off the 20-point additives part, the biggest additive deduction SnoutScan makes, and the ingredient shows as a red chip. If no named animal protein comes first, the score also cannot go above 30.
Where it turns up
Kibble, treats and animal fat, usually written as "animal fat (preserved with BHA)" or near the end of the list.
SnoutScan looks for these words on a label:
- bha
- bht
- tbhq
- propyl gallate
Related ingredients
Read more
Common questions
What should I look for instead?
Labels that say "preserved with mixed tocopherols" or list rosemary extract. SnoutScan does not mark those down.
My dog has eaten food with BHA for years. Is that a problem?
The amounts allowed are small, and there is no sign of acute harm. If you want to avoid it, switch gradually to a food preserved with tocopherols, and ask your vet if you have concerns.
Based on the US National Toxicology Program Report on Carcinogens and FDA and EU feed additive rules. This is a guide to labels, not a substitute for your vet.
Check whether your dog's food contains BHA and BHT.
Scan your dog's food