Propyl gallate is an antioxidant with antimicrobial activity. It is hepatoprotective in vitro and in vivo, preventing CCl4 induced lipoperoxidation and reduction in polysomes in rat liver. Propyl gallate (100 mg/kg, i.p.) increases expression of HIF-1α, EPO, and VEGF mRNA levels and the number of normal neurons in rat brains after 8 minutes of forebrain ischemia. Propyl gallate in combination with potassium sorbate is bactericidal and bacteriostatic against S. aureus strains known to produce enterotoxins in food. Propyl gallate is commonly added to foods to prevent autoxidation and microbial growth.