Foods Containing E311 (Octyl Gallate)
E311 (Octyl Gallate) is a synthetic antioxidant, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. Here's where you're most likely to find it on food labels.
Common foods that contain E311
E311 is used across oils, margarine, snacks, cured meats, soft drinks and processed foods. The foods where it appears most often include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Exact usage varies by brand and recipe — the only way to know for certain whether a specific product contains E311 is to check its ingredients list, where it must be declared by law, either as "E311" or as "Octyl Gallate".
How to spot E311 on a label
In the UK and EU, additives must appear in the ingredients list with their function and either their E-number or full name — for example "antioxidants: E311" or "antioxidants: octyl gallate". In the US the E-number system isn't used, so look for the full name "Octyl Gallate" instead.
Should you avoid foods containing E311?
E311 is approved for use in the EU, UK and US at regulated levels, but some concerns or conditions apply. For most people, normal dietary exposure to E311 is not considered harmful.
Full guide to E311: safety, vegan and halal status →
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).