Octyl gallate
Synthetic antioxidant; limited data.
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
E311 (Octyl gallate) is a synthetic antioxidant from the gallate family, designed to extend the shelf life of fats and oils.
How it is used in food
Antioxidant for fats.
Commonly found in- Edible oils and fats
- Margarine and vegetable spreads
- Chewing gum
Health and safety
Lacks recent safety data.
During its re-evaluation, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) found that there was insufficient toxicological data to establish a safe Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for octyl gallate. Consequently, it was removed from the list of authorised food additives.
Skin sensitisation
Gallates are recognised contact sensitisers, the same concern documented for propyl gallate (E 310). For octyl gallate the wider toxicological picture is unresolved rather than reassuring: EFSA found the data inadequate to confirm safety at all.
Its EU authorization lapsed in 2018 for lack of submitted safety data.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Banned | Not approved for use as a food additive. “Banned” |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E311
Worth knowing
Finding it on a label usually means an old formulation or import.
Conclusion
E311 is no longer legally permitted in European foods. If you see it on a label, it may be an imported product non-compliant with EU regulations, or an outdated label.
References
- Commission Regulation (EU) 2018/1481 (E 311 and E 312 deleted from the Union list) — European Commission
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
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