Propyl Gallate vs Propylene Glycol: which is worse?
Quick answer: Propyl Gallate carries the heavier risk profile. Propyl Gallate is — in the EU and — in the US; Propylene Glycol is — in the EU and — in the US.
| Property | Propyl Gallate | Propylene Glycol |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | — | — |
| US status | — | — |
| Risk level | — | — |
| Banned in | Japan (banned for food use) | — |
| Restricted in | European Union (restricted to 200 mg/kg in specific fat/oil applications), United Kingdom, Australia | European Union (not permitted as a direct food additive in most food applications; only permitted as a carrier solvent for specific additives at low levels) |
| Category | additive | additive |
| Where it hides | — | — |
What is Propyl Gallate?
Propyl gallate is a synthetic antioxidant preservative derived from gallic acid and propanol. It prevents oxidation of fats and oils, extending shelf life of fat-containing foods. It is often used in combination with BHA and BHT for synergistic antioxidant effect. Chemical formula: C10H12O5.
What is Propylene Glycol?
Propylene glycol is a synthetic organic compound used as a humectant, solvent, and emulsifier in food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial applications. It is produced from propylene oxide (derived from petroleum). Its chemical formula is C3H8O2.
Documented risks
Propyl Gallate: Animal studies have shown propyl gallate may cause liver damage at high doses. Concerns about estrogenic activity have been raised — some studies suggest propyl gallate may weakly mimic estrogen. Contact dermatitis and allergic reactions are documented in both food and cosmetic applications. Japan banned propyl gallate for food use as part of its precautionary approach to synthetic food preservatives. NTP bioassays found dose-dependent liver effects. EFSA's re-evaluation set an ADI of 0.1 mg/kg body weight — one of the lowest ADIs for food additives, reflecting toxicological concern.
Propylene Glycol: Propylene glycol is generally considered safe by the FDA and is metabolized by the liver to lactic acid and pyruvate (normal metabolites). However, at high doses — particularly from intravenous pharmaceutical formulations — propylene glycol can accumulate and cause lactic acidosis, kidney toxicity, and CNS effects. These effects are seen in critically ill patients receiving high-dose PG-containing intravenous medications, not from food consumption. In children and people with impaired liver or kidney function, PG accumulation may occur at lower doses than in healthy adults. Animal studies have found reproductive and developmental effects at high doses. EFSA's 2018 re-evaluation found no concerns at typical food use levels but noted the EU limits PG use as a direct food additive, using it only as a carrier solvent for permitted additives.
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