Rising Demand for Antioxidants in Processed Food and Beverages is the Driving Factor in the Market

The global food and beverage sector is witnessing a shift toward processed and ultra-processed products, fuelled by urbanization, changing lifestyles, and demand for convenience and extended shelf life. As supply chains lengthen and food products travel farther, oxidation of lipids, flavors and nutrients—becomes a central concern for manufacturers. Antioxidants such as Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) are widely used to prevent rancidity, preserve color and flavor, and maintain nutritional quality. Alongside rising disposable incomes and increased consumption of fatty, ready-to-eat, baked, fried and packaged snacks, regulatory bodies are increasingly attentive to food safety and stability. These dynamics are key drivers for the global BHT market.

For instance,

• In August 2021, PubMed Central published Functional and Antioxidant Properties of Plastic Bottle Caps Incorporated with BHA or BHT, where BHT was incorporated into high-density polyethylene bottle caps at 2 percent w/w to reduce oxidation risks in stored beverages, highlighting its role in extending shelf stability via packaging. 
•  In August 2025, CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics reported that during August 2021 to August 2023 the overall mean percentage of total calories consumed by Americans age one year or older from ultra-processed foods was 55.0 percent. Youth (ages 1-18) consumed about 61.9 percent, adults age 19 and older about 53.0 percent.
• In February 2025, a Nature Communications study covering Korea found that ultra-processed foods among Korean adults increased steadily over decades: from about 17.41 percent of energy intake in 1998-2005 to 26.71 percent in 2016-2019, and continued with high levels during 2020-2022. 
•  In November 2023, a global fact sheet from the Global Food Research Program noted that consumption of ultra-processed foods is rising globally in children and adolescents, contributing larger shares of dietary energy, and associated with poorer nutrient profiles.

These evidence clearly shows that ultra-processed foods now dominate dietary energy intake for large populations. Data from the CDC highlight that in the United States, more than half of daily calories come from ultra-processed products, while research from Korea demonstrates a long-term increase in processed food dependence, and global surveys confirm rising consumption among children and adolescents. These foods, rich in fats, sugars, and additives, are highly vulnerable to oxidative degradation, which directly increases the need for effective antioxidants to preserve quality and shelf life for which the incorporation of BHT into both packaging and food formulations further proves its practical role in combating oxidation within modern food systems. Taken together, these instances show that the steady rise in processed food consumption across markets creates a sustained driver for the global Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) market, ensuring its continued relevance as an essential antioxidant for Processed Food and Beverages

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Data Bridge market research analyzes that Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market is expected to reach USD 355.61 million by 2032 from USD 223.02 million in 2024, growing with a substantial CAGR of 6.18% in the forecast period of 2025 to 2032.

Key Findings of the Study

Growth in Demand from Pharmaceutical Excipient Applications

The pharmaceutical industry continually seeks effective excipients to enhance the stability, shelf-life, and efficacy of drug formulations. Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT), a synthetic antioxidant, has garnered attention for its potential applications in this domain. While traditionally utilized in food and cosmetic products, BHT's role as an excipient in pharmaceuticals is emerging, driven by its antioxidant properties that can prevent oxidative degradation of sensitive drug compounds. This shift presents a significant opportunity for the global BHT market, especially as the pharmaceutical sector increasingly focuses on improving drug formulation stability and patient compliance.

For instances,

• In December 2021, European Commission published the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) opinion on BHT, acknowledging its use in various consumer products, including pharmaceuticals, and setting safety concentrations for its application.
• In February 2025, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated its Inventory of Food Contact Substances, listing BHT as an authorized substance, reflecting its established role in pharmaceutical applications.
• In August 2025, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published an update on its post-market chemical review program, indicating ongoing evaluations of substances like BHT for their safety and efficacy in various applications, including pharmaceuticals.

The regulatory documents and updates from the European Commission and the U.S. FDA highlight BHT’s recognized and ongoing role in pharmaceutical applications. The SCCS opinion from December 2021 establishes safe concentration limits, confirming BHT’s suitability as an excipient in drug formulations. Subsequent updates by the FDA in February and August 2025 further demonstrate regulatory acknowledgment of BHT’s use and safety, while also showing that authorities continue to monitor its efficacy and potential risks. Together, these instances indicate a stable regulatory environment and growing acceptance of BHT in pharmaceuticals, presenting a clear opportunity for the global market to expand its use as an antioxidant excipient in drug formulations

Report Scope and Market Segmentation

Segment Analysis

The Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market is segmented into five notable segments which are based on the purity grade, functionality, formulation, packing format, and application.

• On the basis of purity grade, market is segmented into technical grade, industrial grade, food grade, cosmetic grade, pharmaceutical grade, others.

In 2025, the Technical Grade segment is expected to dominate the market

In 2025, the Technical Grade segment is expected to dominate the market with a market share of 41.19% as extensive use in industrial applications such as plastics, rubber, and lubricants, where antioxidant protection is critical. It is cost-effective, widely available, and offers high thermal stability, making it ideal for large-scale manufacturing processes.

• On the basis of Functionality, Market is segmented into Food and Feed Preservatives, Polymer & Fuel Stabilizer, Cosmetic & Pharmaceutical Stabilizer, Others.

In 2025, the Food and Feed Preservatives segment is expected to dominate the market

In 2025, the Food and Feed Preservatives segment is expected to dominate the market with a market share of 44.68% due to growing demand for shelf-life extension in packaged and processed foods, rising global food consumption, and increased use of BHT as an approved antioxidant in animal feed to maintain product freshness and nutritional quality.

• On the basis of Formulation, Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market is segmented into Liquid, and Powder.

In 2025, the Liquid segment is expected to dominate the market

In 2025, the Liquid segment is expected to dominate the market with a market share of 71.04% due to its superior solubility, ease of blending in various formulations, and growing preference in industries like lubricants, fuels, and cosmetics where uniform dispersion and fast mixing are crucial for performance and stability.

• On the basis of Packing Format, Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market is segmented into IBC Totes, Bulk Drums, Others.

In 2025, the IBC Totes segment is expected to dominate the market

In 2025, the IBC Totes segment is expected to dominate the market with a market share of 54.15% due to the high storage capacity, ease of transportation, and cost-efficiency for large-scale industrial use. IBC totes offer better handling, reduced spillage risk, and are ideal for industries requiring bulk quantities with efficient logistics.

• On the basis of application, the Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market is segmented into Polymer Stabilizers/Plastic Industry, Food Industry, Animal Feed, Cosmetic Ingredients, Fuel/Oil Additives, Pesticide Formulations, Rubber, and Others.

In 2025, the Polymer Stabilizers/Plastic Industry segment is expected to dominate the market

In 2025, the Polymer Stabilizers/Plastic Industry segment is expected to dominate the market with a market share of 46.99% due to growing demand for durable and long-lasting plastic products across industries such as packaging, automotive, and construction. BHT’s effectiveness in preventing polymer degradation and enhancing material stability drives its widespread use, supporting industry growth amid increasing production and consumption of plastics globally.

Major Players

HONSHU CHEMICAL INDUSTRY CO., LTD. (Japan), Azelis (Belgium), KEMIN INDUSTRIES, INC. (U.S.), EASTMAN CHEMICAL COMPANY (U.S.), SASOL LTD. (South Africa) among others.

Latest Developments in Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market

• In September 2025, LANXESS Innovation unveiled a new suite of technologies designed to elevate food and beverage safety through advanced digital integration. Leveraging AI-driven analytics and blockchain-based traceability, the company enables transparent, tamper-proof tracking of products across the entire supply chain — from source to shelf. Additionally, IoT sensor networks continuously monitor storage and transport conditions such as temperature and humidity, helping to prevent spoilage and ensuring consistent product quality and consumer trust.
• In July 2025, KANEBO is set to launch a new cream duo, "CREAM IN DAY II" and "CREAM IN NIGHT II," inspired by vernix caseosa—the creamy, protective layer on newborns' skin. This innovation, based on the newly developed TAISHI™ Complex, aims to mimic vernix’s moisture-retaining and barrier-strengthening functions. The day cream shields skin from UV rays and dryness while acting as a makeup base, and the night cream works overnight to firm and reduce wrinkles.
• In December 2024, Clean Fino-Chem Limited recently commenced commercial-scale production of Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) at its manufacturing facility in MIDC Kurkumbh, Pune. This production on a campaign basis leverages their existing infrastructure, allowing efficient scaling without significant additional investment. The move strengthens Clean Fino-Chem's presence in the antioxidant market, complementing their existing antioxidants such as BHA, TBHQ, and Ascorbyl Palmitate. The company aims to produce between 2,000 to 3,000 tons of BHT annually, targeting global markets including Europe, the US, and Latin America, and expects this expansion to boost revenue by INR 60-80 crores. This development enhances their competitive position in the growing global BHT market.
• In June 2024, Clean Fino-Chem Limited recently commenced commercial-scale production of Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) at its manufacturing facility in MIDC Kurkumbh, Pune. This production on a campaign basis leverages their existing infrastructure, allowing efficient scaling without significant additional investment. The move strengthens Clean Fino-Chem's presence in the antioxidant market, complementing their existing antioxidants like BHA, TBHQ, and Ascorbyl Palmitate. The company aims to produce between 2,000 to 3,000 tons of BHT annually, targeting global markets including Europe, the US, and Latin America, and expects this expansion to boost revenue by INR 60-80 crores. This development enhances their competitive position in the growing global BHT market.
• In October 2023, the company highlighted that BHT is primarily used as a food/feed additive, emphasizing their role as a prominent BHT manufacturer with expanded production capabilities. They also introduced drum packaging (90kg/drum) to cater to customer demands, improving the packaging and logistics for BHT exports in the global market. These updates reflect Shanghai Exquisite's ongoing focus on strengthening its global BHT market presence through product quality and packaging innovations.

As per Data Bridge Market Research analysis:

Geographically, the countries covered in the Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market report are North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, South America. Europe is further segmented into Italy, U.K., Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and Rest of Europe. The Asia-Pacific is further segmented into China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, New Zealand, Malaysia, Australia, Rest of Asia-Pacific. The North America is further segmented into U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The South America is further segmented into Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, Peru, Venezuela, Ecuador, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia, and rest of South America. The Middle East and Africa is further segmented into South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Rest of Middle East and Africa.

Asia-Pacific is the dominating country in Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market

Asia-Pacific leads the Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market, driven by the rapid industrialization, expanding food and beverage manufacturing, and strong growth in cosmetics and personal care sectors. Rising demand for processed and packaged foods in countries such as China, India, and Indonesia is fueling the use of BHT as an antioxidant preservative. Additionally, the region’s robust pharmaceutical and polymer industries—supported by cost-effective raw materials and government initiatives promoting domestic chemical production—further strengthen its market dominance.

Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing region in Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market

Asia Pacific is expected to witness significant growth in the Global Butylated Hydroxytoluene Market, driven by rising consumption of processed and packaged foods, expanding personal care and cosmetics manufacturing, and increasing demand for synthetic antioxidants in the polymer and rubber industries. Rapid urbanization, growing disposable incomes, and supportive government policies promoting industrial and chemical sector development in countries like China, India, and South Korea are further propelling market expansion across the region.

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