| Essence |
Dodecyl Gallate or E312 is a, generally, synthetic antioxidant (which appears as white to light yellow powder) that can, however, be also made only by deriving from natural ingredients and its applications go beyond just food as it is also used in cosmetics and medicine. It is generally used to avert rancidity with fats, oils, and fatty-related foods. |
| Names |
Unidone LG, Lauryl Gallate, Lauryl 3,4,5-Trihydroxybenzoate, N-Dodecyl 3,4,5-Trihydroxybenzoate, CAS 1166-52-5, 3-(Dodecyloxy)Benzene-1,2,4-Triol-5-Carboxylic Acid, Gallic Acid Dodecyl Ester, N-Lauryl Gallate, Thiverval, Euxyl K 712, E312, Dodecyl Gallate, and others. |
| Sourcing |
Gallic Acid (a phenolic compound naturally found in pecans, honey, carrots, onions, pomegranates, blackberries, strawberries, grapes, pears, cinnamon, and others) is the ingredient which this additive is made from. |
| Manufacturing |
The sourcing ingredient undergoes esterification with Dodecanol (a type of alcohol derived from palm or coconut oil) while in the presence of a catalyst, such as p-toluenesulfonic acid, sulfuric acid, aluminum chloride, or others. The outcome of that is then purified through crystallization, distillation, or chromatography. |
| Application |
Antioxidant (synthetic, fat-soluble) and preservative. |
| Acceptable Daily Intake |
Amounts of up to 0.5 milligrams on every kilogram of body weight are claimed to be safe. |
| Side Effects |
In high doses, it can cause liver and kidney toxicity, as well as DNA damage. Gastrointestinal discomfort (for example, stomach upset, abdominal pain, nausea, cramping, and vomiting) is also possible. Also, possible are allergic reactions, such as swelling, hives, coughing, wheezing, and itching. |
| Benefits |
None. (There’s maybe some antioxidant activity which, however, likely won’t provide any real benefit.) |
| Studies |
70+ studies on Pubmed. Less than 5 studies on safety. |
| Allergens |
None. |
| Diet Restrictions |
Generally, none. But it may or may not qualify as Halal. |
| Health Knight Assessment |
Likely Harmful. | Category 4 Additive. |
| Products |
Dodecyl Gallate (E312) can be found in processed foods like bread, soy milk, ketchup, pastries, sausages, bacon, chewing gum, potato chips, margarine, breakfast cereals, cookies, cakes, canned meats, spreads, beer, corn chips, wine, and others. |
