BHA vs BHT: Unraveling The Differences

The research objective of the HOPE group is to determine the differences in the use of artificial antioxidants Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) on human health. The HOPE group chose the research objective because few people know the effects of using BHA and BHT on human health. This is due to the addition of BHA and BHT in food, whose products are still being debated because the limit for the number of safe additions is still unknown. Hence, the HOPE group wants to know the effects of BHA and BHT on human health by collecting results from various reviews and journals. From the dynamics carried out by the HOPE group, we understand that cooperation is needed in determining research objectives and finding valid sources.

We have learned that Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) is a synthetic antioxidant with the hydroquinone type which has the molecular formula C11H16O2 and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) is a synthetic antioxidant commonly used to prevent oxidation in oil. Besides, we have learned how to create Systematic Review, from the introduction, and eligibility criteria (study characteristics, sample characteristics, and article characteristics), to the search strategy (search keywords, published and unpublished studies, data extraction, proposed analysis, and publication bias). To attract audiences to read the next part, we will tell them through the conclusion, such as embracing the antioxidant revolution. By crafting engaging narratives, incorporating compelling language, and arousing the reader's curiosity, this approach aims to entice the audience to read the next section of our systematic review.

In the HOPE group, our approach to searching for literature is both critical and creative. We understand the importance of conducting a comprehensive and careful search to gather relevant information on the effects of BHA and BHT on human health. We critically evaluate various reviews and journals to ensure the validity and reliability of the sources we include in our research. Additionally, we adopt a creative mindset to explore different avenues and perspectives, looking beyond the obvious sources to discover valuable insights and potential knowledge gaps. Regarding our group's dynamic, it is evident that we face challenges that contribute to feelings of stress and pressure. The complexity of our research objective, coupled with the ongoing debates and uncertainties surrounding the safety of BHA and BHT, creates a demanding environment. However, we recognize that collaboration and teamwork are crucial to navigating these challenges. By leveraging our diverse strengths and expertise, we can support each other and make informed decisions together. Our group dynamic, though challenging, fosters collaboration and support among team members. Ultimately, our group's dedication and combined efforts will contribute to a better understanding of the impacts of artificial antioxidants on human health.

In the process of reading and abstraction SR, there are a few obstacles in doing it where each member of the HOPE group has their own busy schedule which makes it difficult to continue the process of making this systematic review. However, we still did our best by taking the time to do reading and abstraction where each person will look for at least 5 research articles that have elements in the use of BHT or BHA to be used in the abstraction process. Then, we will review the research articles used in the abstraction process to achieve a high level of reliability. This part is also a difficult part to do according to our group, in addition to our own busy schedules, but the lack of experience in reviewing a large number of articles causes it to be one of the challenges for our group. However, to minimize any miscommunication, we communicated regularly and worked together to avoid any mistakes during the reading and abstraction process.

After that, in making the assignment (ASG), our group worked on the assignment by distributing tasks per section on the assignment such as in ASG 3 where 3 people played a role in completing the introduction section, while 2 more people would work on the eligibility criteria section and after that, it would be double-checked again so that nothing was wrong in the work. This is done to speed up the process to make it more efficient and effective. In accordance with what has been explained, in the process of working on assignments there are problems that occur such as lack of time in the process, having their own business, and also the miscommunication that occurs in the process of working but this can be overcome by regular communication within the group and dividing tasks fairly to maintain the cooperative relationship of this group in the ASG process. This is why the level of cooperation and communication is key in working on this ASG in groups. What we learned during the ASG making process was the increase of our knowledge in explaining the advantages of using BHA/BHT antioxidants where generally BHA has a higher advantage than BHT. Apart from the material obtained in this ASG work, the cooperative relationship that was established during the work process was important for us.