| Essence |
Octyl Gallate or E311 is a synthetic antioxidant that presents itself as a white or slightly yellow crystalline powder and is used to prevent spoilage in processed foods, supplements, and medicine, in particular by averting oxidation of fats and oils. |
| Names |
2-(Octyloxy)Benzoic Acid, Gallate Octyl Ester, N-Octyl Gallate, 3,4,5-Trihydroxybenzoic Acid Octyl Ester, CAS 1034-01-1, Benzoic Acid 3,4,5-Trihydroxyoctyl Ester, N-Octylgallate, GA 8, Progallin O, N-Octyl Ester Of 3,4,5-Trihydroxybenzoic Acid, Gallic Acid Octyl Ester, E311, Octyl Gallate, and others. |
| Sourcing |
Gallic Acid (a natural compound found in grapes, pomegranate roots, black and green tea, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, walnuts, almonds, apples, bananas, and others) is the sourcing ingredient. |
| Manufacturing |
The sourcing ingredient is mixed with 2-octanol (a type of alcohol derived from coconut or palm oil) while in the presence of a catalyst, like Hydrochloric Acid, Phosphoric Acid, or Sulfuric Acid (the last one being the most preferred one). The result of that is then purified and processed into either a fine powder or liquid. |
| Application |
Antioxidant (synthetic, fat-soluble) and preservative. |
| Acceptable Daily Intake |
Amounts of up to 1.25 milligrams on every kilogram of body weight are claimed to be safe. |
| Side Effects |
Both allergic reactions (like hives, difficulty breathing, swelling, and others) and skin irritation are possible. Additionally, it may cause gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. In extreme amounts, it can also cause liver toxicity. |
| Benefits |
It has no inherent benefits, apart from some antioxidant activity. |
| Studies |
160+ studies on Pubmed. Less than 10 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 |
Octyl Gallate (E311) can be found in processed foods like yogurts, salads, ham, marmalade, soft drinks, cookies, biscuits, jams, sandwiches, and others. |
