What is it?
Octyl gallate is an antioxidant and preservative in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic products, especially those containing oils or fats.

How do I avoid it?
Skin contact with octyl gallate is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing octyl gallate should result in improvement and/or resolution of your dermatitis. By law, all products made in the U.S. for topical use have the ingredients listed either on the product package or the box that contains it, so check the labeling of your skin care products for this
ingredient. If there is not enough information, ask your pharmacist or retailer or contact the company directly. At work, request a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to help identify potential sources of exposure.

Direct contact with foods or products containing octyl gallate may cause symptoms including burning, irritation and redness. Direct contact may occur on the skin, lips, or mouth. Although it is rare, it is possibe that ingestion of foods containing octyl gallate could cause generalized symptoms such as itching or redness of the skin if you have shown a sensitivity to it. Discuss with your provider whether you should avoid eating foods containing octyl gallate or avoid handling them.

Uses:
  • Foods
    • Broths, instant soups, and gravies
    • Butter and margarine
    • Cakes
    • Cereals
    • Cheese
    • Chewing gum
    • Crisp wheat products
    • Dairy blends
    • Fats/Oils/Lard
    • Flavoring agents (including essential oils)
    • Instant potato products
    • Marzipan mass and marzipan like products
    • Milk
    • Pastries
    • Peanut butter
    • Salad dressings
    • Sauces
    • Soups
  • Topical medications (prescription and over the counter)
  • Skin care products/Cosmetics
    • Antiperspirants/Deodorants
    • Hair sprays, gels, tonics, and lotions
    • Make-ups
    • Moisturizers
    • Shampoos/Conditioners
    • Shaving products
    • Soaps/Cleansers
    • Sunscreens and self-tanners
Other names for octyl gallate:
  • Octyl ester of gallic acid
  • Octyl 3.4,5-trihydroxybenzoate
  • E311
  • Gallic acid, octyl ester
  • n-Octyl gallate
Potential cross-reacting/co-reacting substances:
  • Other gallate compounds (propyl gallate, lauryl gallate, and dodecyl gallate)

How safe is it?

Hang tight. We're thinking.