31404

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), also known as dibutylhydroxytoluene, is a lipophilic organic compound, chemically a derivative of phenol, that is useful for its antioxidant properties.BHT is widely used to prevent free radical-mediated oxidation in fluids (e.g. fuels, oils) and other materials, and the regulations overseen by the U.S. F.D.A.—which considers BHT to be "generally recognized as safe"—allow small amounts to be added to foods. Despite this, and the earlier determination by the National Cancer Institute that BHT was noncarcinogenic in an animal model, societal concerns over its broad use have been expressed. BHT has also been postulated as an antiviral drug, but as of December 2022, use of BHT as a drug is not supported by the scientific literature and it has not been approved by any drug regulatory agency for use as an antiviral. 2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol is a member of the class of phenols that is 4-methylphenol substituted by tert-butyl groups at positions 2 and 6. It has a role as an antioxidant, a food additive, a ferroptosis inhibitor and a geroprotector. It is functionally related to a phenol.

GHS Hazard Statements

• H400 (44.64%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

• H410 (88.43%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

First Aid

Eyes: If a victim's eyes are exposed:

• Remove any contact lenses.

• Flush the eyes with water or saline for 20-30 minutes.

• Avoid using ointments or medications unless directed by a physician.

• Call a hospital or poison control center while flushing.

• Immediately transport the victim to a hospital after flushing, even if there are no symptoms.

Skin: For skin exposure:

• Immediately rinse the skin with water, removing any contaminated clothing.

• Wash the affected areas with soap and water.

• If redness or irritation occurs, call a physician and prepare to transport the victim to a hospital.

Inhalation: If inhaled:

• Leave the contaminated area immediately and breathe fresh air.

• If symptoms like wheezing or coughing occur, call a physician and prepare for hospital transport.

• Rescuers should use respiratory protection, preferably a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).

Ingestion: If ingested:

• Do not induce vomiting.

• If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1-2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and call for medical help immediately.

• If the victim is unconscious or convulsing, keep the airway open, position them with their head lower than their body, and transport them to a hospital immediately.

National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem