E311 · Octyl gallate
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Use caution
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E311?
Octyl gallate is a synthetic antioxidant made from gallic acid, used at low levels to prevent fats and oils in food from oxidizing. It is also used in cosmetics to stabilize oil-based formulations. Regulatory bodies have set an acceptable daily intake, and typical dietary exposure is well within safe limits.
Also appears on labels as: Octyl Gallate, E311, E-311, E 311, n-Octyl Gallate, Octyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate, Gallate of Octanol, Octyl Ester of Gallic Acid, Gallic Acid Octyl Ester, n-Octyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate, Food Antioxidant E311, Octyl Gallate Antioxidant.
What the evidence says
- Regulated with a group acceptable daily intake (shared with propyl and dodecyl gallate); typical use levels are within safety limits.
- May cause contact allergy or skin irritation in sensitive individuals, more relevant to cosmetic than dietary exposure.
Frequently asked questions
Is E311 safe?
Our overall verdict for E311 (Octyl gallate) is “Use caution”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: use caution; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe.
Is E311 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Octyl gallate — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E311 and why is it used?
Octyl gallate is a synthetic antioxidant made from gallic acid, used at low levels to prevent fats and oils in food from oxidizing. It is also used in cosmetics to stabilize oil-based formulations. Regulatory bodies have set an acceptable daily intake, and typical dietary exposure is well within safe limits.
Does E311 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Octyl gallate, though some people report sensitivity (Rare contact sensitivity reported, mainly from cosmetic rather than food use.).
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.