Ethyl gallate
Not authorised in EU, but permitted in AU-NZ and US. No evidence of harm at dietary intake.
- Category
- Antioxidants
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
Ethyl gallate is a synthetic antioxidant of the gallate family, used to keep fats from going rancid.
How it is used in food
Interrupts the chain reaction that turns frying oils and fatty snacks rancid.
Commonly found in- Frying oils and fats
- Margarine
- Snack foods
- Processed nuts
Health and safety
No known risks at typical dietary levels.
Not authorised as a food additive in the EU. Its relatives E311 and E312 were deleted from the EU list in 2018 when the missing safety data was never supplied.
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) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E313
Worth knowing
Gallic acid, the backbone of all the gallates, is the same compound that makes strong tea taste astringent.
Conclusion
An obsolete, banned synthetic antioxidant.
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Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-08-05.
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