Does Kellogg's use BHT? The Preservative Controversy Explained

December 25, 2025 •

3 min read

According to numerous consumer advocacy groups, BHT, a synthetic preservative, is still used in many Kellogg's cereals sold in the United States, even as the company offers BHT-free versions overseas. This stark double standard has put a spotlight on the question: does Kellogg's use BHT, and what are the implications for American consumers?

Quick Summary

An examination of Kellogg's use of the preservative BHT in its U.S. cereals highlights a disparity compared to products sold in other countries. The company has faced pressure from consumer groups to remove BHT and other artificial ingredients, leading to changes in some products but not all. Concerns persist regarding BHT's safety, despite FDA approval.

Key Points

Selective Use: Kellogg's has been shown to use BHT in many U.S. cereals, while simultaneously offering BHT-free versions of the same products in other countries like Europe and Australia.
Regulatory Differences: BHT is 'Generally Recognized as Safe' by the U.S. FDA, but is more strictly regulated or banned in other countries, leading to a double standard in product formulation.
Ongoing Consumer Pressure: Following public campaigns and recent legal scrutiny, Kellogg's has removed BHT from some U.S. cereal varieties, but not all.
Health Concerns: Concerns surrounding BHT include potential endocrine disruption and conflicting animal studies regarding its carcinogenic effects.
Natural Alternatives: Effective alternatives to BHT, such as Vitamin E (tocopherols) and rosemary extract, are readily available and used by many manufacturers.
Read the Label: The best way for concerned consumers to avoid BHT is to carefully read ingredient labels and seek out products specifically marketed as 'No BHT' or organic.

A History of Controversy: Kellogg's and BHT

For years, consumer advocates have drawn attention to the presence of Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) in many Kellogg's cereals sold in the American market. BHT is a synthetic antioxidant used to preserve the freshness of food by preventing oils and fats from going rancid. Its use, while approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has been a source of public concern due to conflicting research and more stringent regulations in other countries.

The most notable aspect of this controversy is the difference in ingredient formulations between products sold in the U.S. and those in markets like Europe and Australia. This practice led to significant public pressure, including petitions and media campaigns.

The Health Concerns and Regulatory Differences

The primary reason for the consumer backlash stems from potential health risks associated with BHT. While the FDA classifies BHT as 'Generally Recognized as Safe' (GRAS) for limited use, this designation has been criticized by advocacy groups. Concerns include potential endocrine disruption, mixed results in animal studies regarding carcinogenic potential, and possible immune system impact.

Many countries in the European Union and Australia have stricter regulations, often banning BHT or requiring alternative formulations. The fact that Kellogg's produces BHT-free versions for these markets indicates the preservative isn't essential for production.

Kellogg's Response and Ongoing Concerns

In response to pressure, Kellogg's announced plans in 2015 to remove BHT and artificial ingredients from many cereals. Some brands saw changes, but others like Frosted Flakes and Froot Loops continued to use BHT in the U.S.. Reports in recent years indicate that many popular cereals still contain these ingredients in the U.S. market. Recent legal action also scrutinizes Kellogg's advertising practices regarding ingredients like BHT omitted overseas.

Exploring BHT Alternatives

Several alternatives to BHT are used by manufacturers, often considered safer and more 'natural'. These include Vitamin E (Mixed Tocopherols), Rosemary Extract, and Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C). Improved packaging techniques can also reduce the need for synthetic antioxidants.

Comparison: Kellogg's U.S. vs. International Cereal Ingredients


Feature	Kellogg's Froot Loops (U.S.)	Kellogg's Froot Loops (Europe/Australia)
Preservative	BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)	None (formulated without BHT)
Colorings	Artificial Colors (e.g., Red 40, Blue 1) from petroleum	Natural Colors (e.g., from spinach, carrots, paprika)
Other Additives	Partially Hydrogenated Oils	No Partially Hydrogenated Oils
Regulations	Adheres to less strict U.S. FDA standards	Adheres to stricter EU/AU food regulations

Making an Informed Decision

Consumers concerned about BHT should read ingredient labels carefully. BHT must be listed when added directly to food, though practices regarding its presence from packaging have been scrutinized. Many brands now label products as 'No BHT.' Choosing whole, unprocessed, or certified organic cereals can also help avoid synthetic preservatives. Staying informed about food additives and global food standards is crucial, and the Kellogg's BHT situation is a key example. For further information on food additives and labeling, consult resources from the Environmental Working Group, a consumer advocacy group. You can find their guide to food chemicals here.

Conclusion: The Evolving Status of BHT

In conclusion, Kellogg's has used and continues to use BHT in some popular U.S. cereals, despite offering BHT-free versions internationally. Consumer and legal pressure has led to some changes, but BHT remains in certain products, highlighting differing global food safety standards and the importance of consumer advocacy. Checking labels and seeking BHT-free or organic options are the best ways for consumers to avoid this preservative.

Frequently Asked Questions

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies BHT as 'Generally Recognized as Safe' (GRAS) for limited use in food products. However, this classification is disputed by some consumer advocacy groups and contrasts with stricter regulations in other countries.

BHT is a synthetic antioxidant used to preserve the freshness of fats and oils, preventing rancidity. Kellogg's primarily uses BHT in cereals with higher fat content in the U.S., but reformulates its products without BHT for countries with stricter food additive regulations.

While Kellogg's has removed BHT from some cereals over the years, popular brands like Froot Loops, Apple Jacks, and Frosted Flakes have historically included or still contain BHT in their U.S. versions. Checking the ingredient label is the most reliable method.

Kellogg's cereals sold in Europe and Australia typically do not contain BHT or artificial colors, as these ingredients are often restricted by local regulations. The U.S. versions, however, have historically included these additives.

Kellogg's made announcements in the mid-2010s about removing artificial ingredients, including BHT, from some cereals. While changes were made to some brands, others continue to contain BHT, and full removal has not been implemented across all U.S. products.

Yes, many other cereal brands, especially organic options, do not use BHT and opt for natural preservatives like Vitamin E (tocopherols). Consumers can also choose unprocessed breakfast alternatives.

BHT will be listed in the ingredients section of the nutrition facts panel if added directly to the food. However, it may be omitted from the label if it's considered an 'incidental additive' from packaging, a practice that has come under scrutiny.