Dodecyl gallate

Dodecyl gallate, also known as lauryl gallate, is the most lipophilic member of the synthetic gallate antioxidant family. Its long dodecyl chain gives it excellent solubility in fats and minimal water solubility, making it ideal for preventing rancidity in fatty products. It is used in vegetable oils, margarine, fried snacks, and certain processed meat products with high fat content.

JECFA's ADI for dodecyl gallate is 0.05 mg per kilogram body weight per day, evaluated in 1995 — the lowest in the gallate series. This conservative ADI reflects its high lipophilicity and accumulation in fatty tissues at high doses in animal studies. At typical food additive use levels, dietary exposure is well below the ADI, but the low limit underscores the importance of adhering to approved maximum use levels.

Dodecyl gallate is approved in the EU at restricted maximum levels and in several other markets. It is among the less commonly used synthetic antioxidants given its strict ADI and the growing availability of natural alternatives. Its presence is most likely in products with high fat content requiring extended shelf life. Consumers checking labels for synthetic antioxidants will find it listed as E312 or "dodecyl gallate." Products using natural tocopherols or rosemary extract instead are increasingly common.