How many pet foods contain TBHQ?

TBHQ is an ingredient found in a small number of pet foods. We found it in 7 products across our database.

Should I avoid pet food with TBHQ?

TBHQ is not a dealbreaker, but it is worth considering alternatives if you have other options.

TBHQ

Q: Is TBHQ safe in pet food?

TBHQ is not necessarily dangerous, but it is worth watching for cats. TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone) is a synthetic fat preservative. Dogs are the most sensitive species to TBHQ according to the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee. Animal studies show pre-cancerous stomach tumors and DNA damage at higher doses.

caution

This concern applies to cats specifically.

TBHQ is an ingredient found in a small number of pet foods for cats. Based on veterinary research, this ingredient has worth keeping an eye on. Below, we explain what we found and list the products that include it.

Why it's flagged

TBHQ (tertiary butylhydroquinone) is a synthetic fat preservative. Dogs are the most sensitive species to TBHQ according to the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee. Animal studies show pre-cancerous stomach tumors and DNA damage at higher doses.