Tertiary butylhydroquinone
Tertiary butylhydroquinone, or TBHQ or E 319 for short, is an artificial preservative used in some dog foods to make them last longer. But what exactly is TBHQ and how does it affect your dog's health? Find out everything you need to know about this additive in this article.
What is TBHQ?
TBHQ is a chemical compound made from phenol and isobutane. It is an antioxidant, which means that it prevents the oxidation of fats and oils that would otherwise become rancid. TBHQ is approved in the European Union as a food additive with the number E 319. It is mainly used for animal fats such as lard, butter or tallow, which may be contained in dog food.
What are the benefits of TBHQ?
The main advantage of TBHQ is that it keeps the dog food fresh for longer. This means that the food spoils less quickly and less waste is produced. TBHQ can also reduce the cost of producing and transporting dog food, as less refrigeration or packaging is required.
What are the disadvantages of TBHQ?
The downside of TBHQ is that it can be potentially harmful to your dog's health. Although there is no clear evidence that TBHQ causes cancer or weakens the immune system, there are some concerns about its long-term effects. Some studies have shown that high doses of TBHQ can lead to liver damage, gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. TBHQ can also interfere with the absorption of vitamins and minerals that your dog needs for optimal health.
How much TBHQ is allowed?
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for TBHQ. This is the amount that a person or animal can consume each day without any health risks. The ADI for TBHQ is 0.7 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. This means, for example, that a dog weighing 10 kilograms should not consume more than 7 milligrams of TBHQ per day.
How do I recognize TBHQ in dog food?
To find out if your dog food contains TBHQ, you need to read the ingredients list on the packaging. TBHQ should be listed there either by its full name or by its E number (E 319). If you are not sure, you can also contact the manufacturer and ask.
Are there alternatives to TBHQ?
Yes, there are alternatives to TBHQ in dog food. One option is to use natural preservatives such as vitamin E (tocopherol), vitamin C (ascorbic acid) or rosemary extract. These also have antioxidant properties and are generally better tolerated by your dog. Another option is to switch to fresh or frozen dog food, which does not require preservatives. However, this requires more effort when storing and preparing the food.
TBHQ is an artificial preservative used in some dog foods to make them last longer. It has some advantages for dog food manufacturers and consumers, but also some potential disadvantages for your dog's health.
If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊