TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone) is a powerful synthetic antioxidant widely used in edible oils, fried foods, snacks, and processed products. It protects against oxidative rancidity, preventing color change, flavor loss, and nutritional degradation. Compared to other antioxidants, TBHQ shows excellent heat stability and performance in high-fat, high-temperature applications.

Mechanism: TBHQ acts as a radical scavenger that interrupts lipid oxidation chain reactions, thereby delaying the formation of peroxides and secondary oxidation products. 

Applications & Benefits: Suitable for vegetable oils, animal fats, snack foods, fried and baked products, instant noodles, and processed meats. Benefits include exceptional antioxidant performance in high-fat matrices, heat stability, extended shelf life, and synergy with other antioxidants. 

Usage Recommendation: Typical dosage is 100–200 mg/kg depending on regional regulations. Always follow local food additive rules.