Is Butylated Hydroxyanisole (E320) Halal?

MUIS lists E320 (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) as doubtful (mashbooh), which means the source cannot be confirmed from the E-number alone — not that it is haram. Although it is made synthetically, some production routes use animal-derived processing aids or carriers, and the E-number does not identify the producer. The reliable check is a recognised halal certification logo on the finished product, or a manufacturer statement of the source.

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is a synthetic phenolic antioxidant prepared from p-methoxyphenol and isobutene. It is widely used to prevent rancidity in fats and oils.

• chewing gum
• vegetable oils
• snack foods
• cereals
• lard
• instant mashed potatoes

• Look for a recognised halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) on the packaging — certified products have had the source of this additive verified.
• Check whether the label states the origin, for example 'vegetable origin', 'plant-based' or 'soy'.
• If there is no certification and the origin is not stated, contact the manufacturer or choose a product with a halal alternative.

BHT (E321), TBHQ (E319), tocopherols (E306)

E320 (Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is a synthetic phenolic antioxidant prepared from p-methoxyphenol and isobutene.

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is a synthetic phenolic antioxidant prepared from p-methoxyphenol and isobutene. It is widely used to prevent rancidity in fats and oils.

E320 is commonly found in chewing gum, vegetable oils, snack foods, cereals, lard, and instant mashed potatoes.