Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a lipophilic synthetic antioxidant widely used in the food industry to protect fats and oils from oxidative degradation. It works by donating hydrogen atoms to free radicals, effectively terminating the chain reaction of lipid peroxidation.
BHT is particularly effective in stabilizing animal fats, vegetable oils, and products containing unsaturated fatty acids. It is often used in combination with BHA or other antioxidants for synergistic protection. BHT is approved for food use in most countries at regulated levels and remains one of the most cost-effective antioxidants for lipid-based food systems.