E312Antioxidant

Dodecyl gallate

Learn what Dodecyl gallate (E312) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.

Moderate concern

What is Dodecyl gallate?

A food additive from the antioxidant category, chemically obtained from lauric alcohol and gallic acid. It is used as an antioxidant to prevent the rancidity of fats in food, either alone or in combination with other gallates or butylated compounds (E 319 - 321), in various animal or vegetable fats, as well as in mixtures for pastries, snacks, instant soups and broths, sauces, processed fruits, cereals, spices, meat products, dehydrated potatoes, flavors, and powdered milk for vending machines.

Why is Dodecyl gallate added to food?

Dodecyl gallate (E312) is a antioxidant commonly found in: Pastry products, snacks, instant soups and broths, sauces, processed fruits, cereals.

Permitted quantity: The acceptable daily intake for human consumption is up to 0.05 mg/kg body weight, a very small amount that can be easily exceeded, especially by children.

Is Dodecyl gallate safe?

Moderate concern

Skin rashes, gastric disorders, and hyperactivity.

Is Dodecyl gallate banned anywhere?

✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.

Is Dodecyl gallate okay for kids?

Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.

Common foods that contain Dodecyl gallate

  • Pastry products
  • snacks
  • instant soups and broths
  • sauces
  • processed fruits
  • cereals

See the full list of foods that contain Dodecyl gallate

How to spot Dodecyl gallate on labels

Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:

  • E312
  • Dodecyl gallate

Common misspellings to watch for:

  • dodecyl gallate
  • dodecyl galldte
  • dodeeyl gallate
  • dodecyl qallate
  • dodecyl gdllate

Better alternatives

• May cause allergic reactions, including hives and skin rashes, in individuals sensitive to gallates. • Excessive consumption may affect liver and kidney function. • Not recommended for people with asthma or aspirin allergies, as it may trigger respiratory reactions. • Should be avoided in the diet of young children and people with rare metabolic conditions, such as galate intolerance.

Explore homemade alternatives to processed snacks →

Also known as

  • dodecyl gallate
  • dodecyl galldte
  • dodeeyl gallate
  • dodecyl qallate
  • dodecyl gdllate

Scan products with BioBrief

Not sure if a product contains Dodecyl gallate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E312 — with a plain-language explanation.

Frequently asked questions about Dodecyl gallate

Is Dodecyl gallate safe to eat?
Skin rashes, gastric disorders, and hyperactivity.
Is Dodecyl gallate banned anywhere?
Dodecyl gallate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Dodecyl gallate safe for children?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
How do I spot Dodecyl gallate on a food label?
Look for E312, Dodecyl gallate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: dodecyl gallate, dodecyl galldte, dodeeyl gallate.

Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.