E311 - Octyl Gallate
Author: Victoria Aly
Time for reading: ~1
minutes
Last Updated:
August 08, 2022
CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)
Characteristics: The food supplement E 311 (octyl gallate) belongs to the group of antioxidants, it is the ethyl ester of gallic acid. Represents a white or slightly yellow crystalline color, a good solution
Characteristic
Food additive E 311 (octyl gallate) belongs to the group of antioxidants, it is the ethyl ester of gallic acid. It is a white or slightly yellow crystalline color, well soluble in alcohols (eg ethyl), glycols, ether. Compared to propyl gallate, octyl gallate dissolves more easily in fats (eg oils) and alcohols, more difficultly in water. The substance has no odor and the taste is slightly bitter. Not found in nature, it is obtained artificially by esterification of gallic acid with octyl alcohol.
Use
Food additive E 311 is used as a synthetic antioxidant in the food industry (in particular to prevent fat oxidation). At a concentration of gallates (including octyl gallate) in the product of about 50-100 mg / kg, a delay in fat oxidation is observed, even when heated strongly. The antioxidant is used in the production of vegetable and animal fats, dry concentrates for confectionery, concentrates for soups, chewing gum.
Octyl gallate, together with propyl gallate, is used for impregnating packaging for products containing fats (eg oils, margarines).
The substance is also used in the manufacture of cosmetics and to stabilize industrial oils and wax products.
Impact on humans
Once in the body, the supplement E 311 is broken down in the gut by gallic acid and octanol. Gallic acid causes various allergic skin reactions (rashes and eczema). In high concentrations, octyl gallate irritates the gastric mucosa, which can lead to various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. People who are sensitive to aspirin should be careful when using gallates. There is evidence that the supplement affects the excitability of the nervous system, can cause hyperactivity. As a result of all that has been said so far, the food supplement E 311 is forbidden to be added to baby and baby foods. The maximum daily dose limit has been removed because the tests were considered insufficient.