General Mills' Decision to Remove BHT from Cereals
The story of BHT in Cheerios is a case study in consumer advocacy and corporate responsiveness. For years, many processed cereals, including some from General Mills, contained BHT to preserve freshness by preventing the oxidation of fats. Public pressure, particularly stemming from online campaigns and widespread awareness about food additives, prompted the company to reassess its use of the synthetic antioxidant.
In 2015, General Mills officially announced its plan to phase out BHT from its cereals. While the company stated the change was primarily a response to consumer preferences rather than safety concerns, the action was significant. The European market had long required different formulations, as BHT was not used in their cereals, highlighting that alternatives were readily available. This global difference in standards fueled the movement for changes in the U.S. market.
The Shift to Natural Antioxidants
General Mills replaced BHT with natural alternatives to maintain the cereal's shelf life. The primary replacement ingredient is vitamin E, also known as mixed tocopherols. Tocopherols are naturally occurring antioxidants found in various foods, such as vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. This ingredient functions similarly to BHT by stabilizing fats and oils and preventing them from becoming rancid, but it is perceived by many consumers as a cleaner and more natural option.
Other natural antioxidants, including rosemary and thyme extracts, have also been explored as potential replacements by the food industry. This shift reflects a broader trend among food manufacturers to simplify ingredient lists and use more recognizable, label-friendly components to appeal to health-conscious consumers.
Are All Cheerios Flavors BHT and BHA-Free?
While the original and many other popular Cheerios flavors, such as Honey Nut Cheerios, are now free of BHA and BHT, it is essential for consumers to check the ingredient list of specific varieties. An investigation by Green America and reports by others noted that as of 2015, some specialty Cheerios flavors, such as Chocolate Cheerios, had still listed BHT on their ingredient labels. While General Mills has committed to removing BHT from all of its cereals, product reformulations and inventory can take time.
To ensure a product is free of these preservatives, always perform the following steps:
- Read the ingredient label: Look for "BHT" or "BHA" explicitly listed. If you see "mixed tocopherols" instead, it's a strong indicator of the switch.
- Check for BHA: While BHT was the main focus of the consumer campaign, BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) is another synthetic antioxidant. Fortunately, the removal of one often means the removal of the other, but it is still wise to double-check.
- Look for packaging updates: Some companies use phrases like "no artificial preservatives" on their packaging to highlight the change.
Why Did Companies Use BHA and BHT?
BHA and BHT are synthetic antioxidants that were widely used because they are highly effective and inexpensive. They prevent the fats and oils in processed foods from oxidizing, which can cause them to go rancid and develop an unpleasant taste and smell. This process extends the shelf life of products like cereals, baked goods, and snack foods. The FDA has classified both BHA and BHT as "generally recognized as safe" (GRAS) for use in specific amounts, but long-term exposure and higher doses have raised concerns in some studies.
Comparison of Synthetic vs. Natural Antioxidants
| Feature | Synthetic Antioxidants (BHA/BHT) | Natural Antioxidants (Mixed Tocopherols) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Generally low-cost and widely available. | Can be more expensive, depending on the source. |
| Effectiveness | Highly effective at preventing rancidity and extending shelf life. | Also effective, with some variants showing high potency. |
| Consumer Perception | Viewed with suspicion by many consumers due to concerns about synthetic additives. | Generally viewed as healthier and more desirable due to natural origin. |
| Regulatory Status | FDA approved as GRAS in specific amounts, but with ongoing scrutiny and controversy. | Widely accepted and often promoted as a healthier alternative. |
| Side Effects (High Doses) | Some animal studies suggest potential risks with high, chronic exposure, including potential carcinogenic effects in specific organs. | Considered safe for consumption; vitamin E is a necessary nutrient. |
Conclusion
General Mills has confirmed that its classic Cheerios cereals no longer contain BHA or BHT. Following a significant consumer-driven initiative, the company began phasing out the synthetic preservatives and has transitioned to using more natural alternatives, such as mixed tocopherols (Vitamin E), to maintain freshness. However, it is always a good practice to read the ingredient list on the packaging of any specific Cheerios variety to confirm it is free of these additives, especially for less common flavors where reformulation timelines may differ. The move away from BHT reflects a growing consumer demand for cleaner, more transparent food ingredients and a shift towards natural preservation methods in the food industry.
Further Reading
For an in-depth look at antioxidants, both synthetic and natural, in cereals, this chapter provides a scientific perspective on the topic.
How to Choose the Right Cereal for You
Choosing a cereal without synthetic preservatives is straightforward if you know what to look for. Beyond checking for BHA and BHT, you might also consider organic or whole-food brands. Many companies now highlight their commitment to natural ingredients on the front of their packaging. Focus on cereals that list vitamin E, rosemary extract, or other natural tocopherols, rather than synthetic additives, as their preservative. Additionally, examining the sugar and sodium content can help you make a more informed and healthy choice for your breakfast routine.
