Gigartina Stellata

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

Gigartina Stellata or Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) is an organic compound used as an antioxidant. This chemical is also known by many other names such as 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol, 2,6-di-tert-butyl-p-cresol (DBPC), 3,5-di-tert-butyl-4-hydroxytoluene or E321. Due to its properties, it is used to inhibit oxidative processes in the body and in industrial applications.

In the food industry, BHT is popular as a preservative added to foods to extend their shelf life. It can be found in many carefully made ready meals, chips or cereals. The compound is also found in some cosmetic and pharmaceutical products where it provides similar protective properties. BHT is also found in motor oils, rubber, electrical insulation materials and a range of other industrial products where it acts as a stabiliser against oxygen damage.