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The facts: Propyl Gallate is banned in 1 country/region (including Japan (banned for food use)), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Propyl Gallate on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Some vegetable oils, Shortening, Lard.
TL;DR: Propyl Gallate is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | — |
| Where it shows up | Some vegetable oils, Shortening, Lard, Margarine, Various packaged snacks, Some cosmetics |
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.
Used as an antioxidant preservative in fats, oils, snack foods, meat products, and cosmetics. It is particularly effective in combination with BHA and BHT. Used in margarine, shortening, lard, baked goods, and some cereals.
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.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Propyl Gallate with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Yes. Propyl Gallate is banned in Japan (banned for food use); restricted in European Union (restricted to 200 mg/kg in specific fat/oil applications), United Kingdom, Australia. The FDA still allows it in the US.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Some vegetable oils, Shortening, Lard, Margarine, Various packaged snacks, Some cosmetics. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Propyl Gallate.
Mixed tocopherols (natural vitamin E), rosemary extract, and ascorbyl palmitate are safe alternatives. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Propyl Gallate or other ingredients restricted overseas.
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