Propyl gallate
Score impact
-0.30
points/product
Description
E310, known as propyl gallate, is a food additive belonging to the category of antioxidants. It is an ester of gallic acid with propyl alcohol, of synthetic origin although gallic acid can be found naturally in some plants such as tea or oak galls. Industrially it is obtained by esterification of gallic acid with propanol in the presence of an acid catalyst. It is a white or off-white crystalline powder, with a slight characteristic odor and bitter taste.
Its molecular weight is 212.2 g/mol, melting point between 146-150 °C and it is soluble in ethanol, acetone and ether, but slightly soluble in water. Its main function is to prevent oxidation of fats and oils, acting as a hydrogen donor to neutralize free radicals, which delays rancidity and prolongs the shelf life of foods.
It was approved as an additive in the European Union after evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). EFSA established an Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) of 1.4 mg per kilogram of body weight.
The overall safety assessment indicates that, at authorized doses, it does not pose a significant health risk. On the label it must appear as 'Propyl gallate' or 'E310'. Although it is a safe additive, moderation in the consumption of processed foods is recommended.
E310 is mainly used in foods rich in fats and oils to prevent oxidation. According to Regulation EC 1333/2008, it is authorized in categories such as fats and oils (except butter), fine bakery products, breakfast cereals, soups and broths, sauces, processed nuts, and heat-treated meat products. Maximum limits vary: for example, 200 mg/kg in fats and oils, 100 mg/kg in bakery products, and 50 mg/kg in breakfast cereals.
In the Spanish market it is found in potato chips, crackers, vegetable shortenings, meat broths, and some sausages. Comparatively, the US FDA considers it GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) with similar limits, while Japan also allows it but with additional restrictions in certain products.
It is common to use it in combination with other antioxidants such as BHA (E320) or BHT (E321) to enhance its effect.
Toxicological studies have evaluated propyl gallate in animals and humans. At high doses (well above the ADI) effects such as gastric irritation, liver and kidney damage have been observed in rodents, but no significant adverse effects have been documented in humans within authorized limits.
EFSA concluded that there is no evidence of carcinogenicity, genotoxicity or reproductive toxicity at dietary exposure levels. However, some sensitive individuals may experience mild allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis, although this is rare. No interactions with drugs have been reported. WHO/JECFA also supports its safety.
In conclusion, E310 is considered safe for the general population when consumed within established limits.
- Propyl gallate
- Gallic acid propyl ester
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