Octyl gallate
Learn what Octyl gallate (E311) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Moderate concernWhat is Octyl 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 Octyl gallate added to food?
Octyl gallate (E311) 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 0.5 mg/kg body weight, a very small amount that can be easily exceeded.
Is Octyl gallate safe?
Moderate concern
Skin rashes, gastric disorders, and hyperactivity.
Is Octyl gallate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Octyl gallate okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Octyl gallate
- Pastry products
- snacks
- instant soups and broths
- sauces
- processed fruits
- cereals
How to spot Octyl gallate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E311
- Octyl gallate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- octyl gdllate
- octyl qallate
- octyl gallate
- octyl galldte
- oetyl gallate
Better alternatives
• May cause allergic reactions, such as skin irritations and hives, in individuals sensitive to gallates. • Not recommended for people with asthma or aspirin allergies, as it may trigger respiratory reactions. • Excessive consumption may affect liver and kidney health. • Not suitable for young children or people with rare metabolic conditions, such as galate intolerance.
Also known as
- octyl gdllate
- octyl qallate
- octyl gallate
- octyl galldte
- oetyl gallate
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Octyl gallate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E311 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Octyl gallate
- Is Octyl gallate safe to eat?
- Skin rashes, gastric disorders, and hyperactivity.
- Is Octyl gallate banned anywhere?
- Octyl gallate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Octyl gallate safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Octyl gallate on a food label?
- Look for E311, Octyl gallate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: octyl gdllate, octyl qallate, octyl gallate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.