What Does the Recent Regulation on Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) Mean to Our Customers?

What does the recent regulation on Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) mean to our customers?

We have reviewed Regulation 2022/2195, published in the Official Journal of the European Union (EU), it provides the new conditions for its  use:

• “In light of the EU’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) opinion, it can be concluded that there is a potential risk to human health arising from the use of Butylated Hydroxytoluene in mouthwash, toothpaste, and other leave-on and rinse-off products when the concentration of that substance exceeds certain levels. Therefore, the use of Butylated Hydroxytoluene in those products should be restricted to a maximum concentration of 0.001 %, 0.1 %, and 0.8 % respectively.”
• Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 should therefore be amended and corrected accordingly (added to Annex III).

What does this mean?

Calumet products such as Versagel and Petrolatum are used in “leave-on” and “rinse-off” products regulated by the maximum BHT concentration of 0.8%. Calumet adds BHT to Petrolatum products at levels not exceeding 0.002% and Versagel products not exceeding 0.05%. Therefore, Calumet is aligned with this Regulation 2022/2195 for its personal care, pharma, and cosmetic products that contain BHT. Additionally, keep in mind as our product is added to the customers’ final formulations it is likely to be diluted further.

Why do we use BHT?

BHT is a synthetic antioxidant widely used in multiple applications such as food additives, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products.  BHT helps maintain the properties and performance of products when exposed to air.

For more information, you can find a BHT FAQ statement on our website.

Stay up to date on the latest regulations and requirements.

Sign up for our newsletter.

Press Releases & Articles