Food - News
The Surprising Reason Wheat Thins Are Banned In Other Countries
By RACHEL PASCHE
While the FDA is more relaxed about certain ingredients and chemicals in our food, Wheat Thins contain an ingredient that the U.K., Japan, and parts of Europe don't allow in theirs. Wheat Thins contain BHT, or butylated hydroxytoluene, which, along with BHA, is "subject to severe restrictions in Europe."
Both of these chemicals found in Wheat Thins are added to preserve freshness in some foods. The New York Times writes that "while evidence on BHT is mixed, BHA is listed in a United States government report on carcinogens as 'reasonably anticipated' to be a human carcinogen."
Is It Bad For You notes that "in recent years, studies have shown the potential for BHT to absorb into the food when the temperature of the bag increases." BHT is also associated with an increased risk of developing illnesses including cancer, thyroid issues, and endocrine complications.