What is TBHQ?

Question

I have these crackers that have TBHQ, not sure exactly what it is? Don't know if I can eat these..going vegan..?

Answer 1

TBHQ is a preservative that's used to extend the cracker's shelf life.  It's vegan but I wouldn't eat products with TBHQ too often because it's a known carcinogen.

Answer 2

TBHQ, BHT, and BHA are all cancer causing carcinogens. They are preservatives, but I avoid them because there are much better alternatives.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TBHQ

Answer 3

TBHQ or tertiarybutylhydroquinone (say that twn times fast --- or try it once ahah YIKES) is an anti-oxidant. It keeps fats from going rancid, so you see it in a lot of foods that they want to have a long shelf life (like Twinkies). but it is also linked to CANCER i cant find anywhere if it is vegan... but I'd stay clear of it regardless. cancer is scary!