On 7 November 2024, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) announced the publication of the conclusions of the evaluation of BHA carried out by France as part of the Community Rolling Action Plan (CoRAP). This could lead to the substance being classified as an endocrine disruptor.
2-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol, also known as Butylated hydroxyanisole (CAS No.25013-16-5, CE No.246-563-8, INCI: BHA) is listed in the CosIng with the functions: Antioxidant, Fragrance.
The substance is not currently regulated under the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009 nor is listing in Annex VI of the European CLP Regulation 1272/2008.
It was included in CoRAP for several reasons for concern: • Reproductive toxicity
• Endocrine disruption (human health)
• Endocrine disruption (environment)
• Consumer use
• Wide dispersive use
• Exposure to sensitive populations
France completed its evaluation of the substance in September 2024, with the following conclusions.
• Reproductive toxicity
Concern confirmed: agrees with the registrant’s selfclassification as Repr. 2, H361 - Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child, but does not see this regulatory action as a priority.
• Endocrine disruption (human health)
Concern confirmed: France recommends a CLH classification.
• Endocrine disruption (environment)
Concern confirmed: France recommends a CLH classification.
• Consumer use
Concern confirmed, particularly as a result of the use of the substance in cosmetic products.
• Wide dispersive use
Concern confirmed.
• Exposure to sensitive populations
Concern confirmed. However, other concerns studied, such as mutagenicity and carcinogenicity, were removed.
As a reminder, BHA is also one of …
