Chemical Name: Propyl Gallate
Common Uses: Antioxidant in food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals
Physical Appearance: White to pale yellow crystalline powder
Chemical Formula: C10H12O5
Odor: Practically odorless
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, freely soluble in ethanol and oils
Main Hazards: Eye and skin irritation, respiratory discomfort if dust is inhaled or handled without care
Routes of Exposure: Inhalation, skin contact, ingestion, eye contact
Environmental Risks: May cause slight adverse effects in aquatic systems if released in bulk form
GHS Classification: Eye irritation (Category 2A), Skin irritation (Category 2), Specific target organ toxicity – single exposure (Category 3)
Ingredient: Propyl Gallate
Concentration: Pure substance used as key ingredient where labeled
CAS Number: 121-79-9
Eye Contact: Rinse gently under low-flow water for at least fifteen minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and plenty of water, remove contaminated clothing
Inhalation: Move to fresh air, support breathing if necessary
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water, avoid forcing vomiting; seek medical attention in all except trivial exposures
Medical Concerns: Sensitive individuals might develop allergies with repeated skin contact
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, foam, carbon dioxide, or water spray
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, acrid smoke in poorly ventilated fires
Protective Equipment: Firefighters need full protective gear and self-contained breathing equipment
Special Considerations: Avoid breathing fumes; cool nearby containers
Personal Precautions: Wear gloves, goggles, and mask to prevent dust inhalation
Environmental Precautions: Prevent runoff into storm drains and waterways
Containment Methods: Use inert absorbent, minimize dust generation
Cleanup Methods: Collect with shovel or vacuum equipped with HEPA filter, bag and seal waste for disposal
Handling Guidelines: Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes, minimize dust; operate in well-ventilated area
Storage Requirements: Store tightly sealed containers in cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from heat or strong oxidizers
Incompatible Substances: Avoid contact with strong acids, bases, and oxidizing agents as these can trigger decomposition
Personal Hygiene: Wash hands after handling, prevent eating or drinking near work area
Engineering Controls: Use local exhaust or general ventilation to keep airborne dust below recommended limits
Eye/Face Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles
Skin Protection: Use gloves and long-sleeved clothing
Respiratory Protection: NIOSH-approved dust mask in scenarios with excessive dust
Exposure Limits: No established occupational exposure limits in many countries, but prudent handling cuts risk
Melting Point: 148–153°C
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Flash Point: Data not broadly provided due to solid state
Vapor Pressure: Negligible at room temperature
Density: About 1.2 g/cm³
pH: Neutral in near-pure state
Solubility Details: More soluble in alcohol and oils than water
Stability: Stable under ordinary storage conditions; breaks down in extreme heat or light
Stability: Stable in sealed container at room temperature
Reactivity: Reacts with strong oxidizers, acids, and bases; may discolor or break down
Conditions to Avoid: Excess heat, light, strong oxidizers, direct sunlight
Hazardous Decomposition: Produces acrid fumes, carbon oxides on burning
Acute Toxicity: Animal studies report relatively low toxicity (LD50 in rats oral: 3800 mg/kg)
Skin/Eye Effects: Mild irritation observed in sensitive users
Ingestion Effects: Large quantities can cause gastrointestinal discomfort; not considered acutely toxic for normal food use
Chronic Effects: Allergic reactions reported from repeated exposure; no known carcinogenicity in current studies
Mutagenicity: No robust evidence of DNA-related hazards
Aquatic Effects: Can harm algae and small aquatic life at high concentrations
Persistence and Degradability: Degrades slowly but does not persist indefinitely in environment
Bioaccumulation: Not recognized as highly bioaccumulative
Practical Impact: Avoid letting large amounts enter streams or soil; proper handling protects local habitats
Product Waste: Treat as chemical waste, avoid discharge into drains, dispose via licensed waste contractor
Contaminated Packaging: Rinse and dispose as chemical waste
Special Considerations: Regulations vary, so follow local, regional, or national guidelines where disposal happens
Reduce Waste: Use product completely if possible before disposal
UN Number: Not classified as hazardous for transport under most regulations
Transport Risk: No major risk under usual conditions, though spills can cause environmental and personal exposure concerns
Packing Recommendations: Keep container sealed and dry, avoid stacking heavy objects on top to prevent breakage
Guideline: Clearly label all transport containers; keep away from food or personal goods during shipment
Food Additive Status: Approved for use as antioxidant in food by many authorities including the US FDA and European EFSA, subject to maximum allowable levels
Occupational Laws: No explicit exposure limits in OSHA, ACGIH, or EU regulations for most workplaces
Chemical Inventories: Present on TSCA and EINECS lists
Consumer Information: Labeling for allergens or additives sometimes required on final products in regulated markets