Which of the following is used as an antioxidant in food?

Options

A. BTX
B. BHT
C. BHC
D. All the three

Answer

To determine which of the following options is used as an antioxidant in food, let's analyze each option provided:

1. **BTX (Benzene, Toluene, Xylene)**:
- BTX is a mixture of three aromatic hydrocarbons: benzene, toluene, and xylene. It is primarily used in the petroleum industry for extracting and creating products like benzene and nylon.
- **Conclusion**: BTX is not used as an antioxidant in food.

2. **BHT (Butylated Hydroxy Toluene)**:
- BHT is a synthetic antioxidant commonly used in food preservation. It helps prevent rancidity in foods containing fats and oils by inhibiting oxidation.
- It is recognized as safe for consumption and is also used in pharmaceuticals and other industries.
- **Conclusion**: BHT is indeed used as an antioxidant in food.

3. **BHC (Benzene Hexachloride)**:
- BHC is a chemical compound that is primarily used as an insecticide. It does not have antioxidant properties and is not used in food preservation.
- **Conclusion**: BHC is not used as an antioxidant in food.

4. **All of these**:
- Since only BHT is recognized as an antioxidant in food, this option is incorrect.

Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **BHT (Butylated Hydroxy Toluene)**, as it is the only compound listed that serves as an antioxidant in food.

### Summary of Steps:
1. Identify the options provided: BTX, BHT, BHC, and all of these.
2. Analyze BTX: Determine its use in the petroleum industry, not as an antioxidant.
3. Analyze BHT: Confirm its role as a common food antioxidant.
4. Analyze BHC: Recognize its use as an insecticide, not an antioxidant.
5. Conclude that only BHT is used as an antioxidant in food.