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E310 · Antioxidants

Propyl gallate

Moderate risk synthetic

Synthetic antioxidant; endocrine debate.

Category
Antioxidants
Acceptable daily intake
0.5 mg/kg body weight/day (EFSA)
Vegan
Yes
Vegetarian
Yes

What it is

E310 (Propyl gallate) is a synthetic antioxidant used to prevent fats and oils from oxidising and turning rancid. It is the only member of the gallate family (E310–E312) that is still legally permitted in the EU.

How it is used in food

Synthetic antioxidant for fats and oils.

Commonly found in
  • Chewing gum
  • Frying oils and animal fats
  • Dehydrated soups and broths
  • Cosmetics and pet foods

Health and safety

Rodent studies raised (contested) endocrine and tumor questions.

Propyl gallate has been subject to rigorous safety reviews. While it is generally recognised as safe within its ADI, there have been historical concerns regarding its potential as an endocrine disruptor, though EFSA concluded the evidence does not support a safety risk at permitted dietary levels.

Skin sensitization

allergic individuals · evidence: established

Propyl gallate is a known contact allergen and can cause contact dermatitis, though this is primarily a concern when it is used in cosmetics rather than food.

EFSA re-evaluation of propyl gallate

EFSA re-set its intake limit in 2014 due to emerging data.

Regulatory status

RegionStatusNotes
Australia & New Zealand
FSANZ		 Permitted Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code.
European Union
EFSA / European Commission		 Permitted Authorised for food use under EU regulations (Annex II).
United States
FDA (Food and Drug Administration)		 Permitted Permitted up to a maximum of 0.02% of fat content.

Identification on labels

E-number
E310

Alternatives to this additive

  • E306: Tocopherols — A completely natural and healthy antioxidant for fats and oils.

How it is made

It is synthesised chemically by reacting gallic acid (often extracted from plant tannins) with propanol.

  1. Esterification — Gallic acid is chemically reacted with propanol to form propyl gallate.

Worth knowing

Appears less and less in modern recipes.

Conclusion

E310 is a harsh, highly effective synthetic antioxidant. While deemed safe in Europe and the US, its use is heavily restricted or banned in other regions, and many food manufacturers are replacing it with natural alternatives like Vitamin E.

References

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Entry last reviewed 2026-07-28.

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