What is it?
Propyl gallate is a preservative. It is used in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries as an antioxidant to prevent oils and fats from becoming rancid.

How can I avoid it?
Skin contact with propyl gallate is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing propyl 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 propyl 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 possible that ingestion of propyl gallate could cause generalized symptoms such as itching or redness of the skin.

Uses:
  • Foods
    • Candies
    • Cereals including oats
    • Chewing gum
    • Cocoa products including imitations and chocolate substitutes
    • Cooked pasta and noodles
    • Dairy-based desserts (pudding and flavored yogurt)
    • Dried milk and meat
    • Dried vegetables
    • Egg-based desserts (custard)
    • Frozen meals
    • Herbs, spices, seasonings, and condiments
    • Lard
    • Margarine
    • Mayonnaise
    • Shortening
    • Meat products
    • Microwaveable popcorn
    • Mixes
    • Peanut butter
    • Potato sticks
    • Processed nuts
    • Rice and tapioca pudding
    • Sausage
    • Shortening
    • Snack foods
    • Soup bases
    • Vegetable oils
    • Vitamins
    • Water-based flavored drinks including “Sport” and “Energy” drinks
    • Whole, broken, or flaked grain, including rice
  • Adhesives
  • Lubricants
  • Skin care products/Cosmetics
    • Soaps/Cleansers
    • Shampoos/Conditioners
    • Moisturizers/Lotions
    • Make-ups including lipsticks
    • Toothpaste
    • Essential oils and perfumes
    • Bath products
    • Self tanning products
    • Sunscreens
    • Hair grooming
  • Fats, oils, waxes
  • Pesticides
  • Medicines
  • Transformer oils
  • Dog foods
Other names for propyl gallate:
  • Other gallate esters
  • Propyl 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoate
  • E310 (food additive)
  • Gallic acid
  • N-propyl gallate

How safe is it?

Hang tight. We're thinking.