Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
Ascorbic Acid
E300 | INS 300
Names & Identifiers
- E Number
- E300
- INS Number
- 300
- CAS Number
- 50-81-7
- Scientific Name
- L-Ascorbic acid
- Japanese Name
- L-アスコルビン酸
- Also Known As
- Vitamin C, L-Ascorbic acid
Regulation Status by Country
European Union
Status: approved | Max level: quantum satis mg/kg
Widely permitted in most food categories
United States
Status: approved | GRAS
Also used as a nutrient supplement
Japan
Status: approved | Category: 既存添加物
Australia / New Zealand
Status: approved | Code: 300
Canada
Status: approved
What is Ascorbic Acid?
Classification
Function: antioxidant
Type: vitamin
Source: synthetic or natural
Natural Occurrence
An essential vitamin (Vitamin C) naturally present in many fruits and vegetables. Humans cannot synthesize it and must obtain it from diet.
Found in: citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes
How It's Made
Method: fermentation or chemical synthesis
Commercially produced by fermentation of glucose using microorganisms, or by the Reichstein process (chemical synthesis from glucose).
Uses Beyond Food
- Cosmetics: Widely used in skincare for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties.
- Pharmaceutical: Used as a vitamin supplement and antioxidant in pharmaceutical formulations.
Commonly Found In
Ascorbic Acid is typically used in:
Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.
Safety Evaluations (Official)
JECFA (WHO/FAO)
ADI: Not specified (vitamin)
EFSA (EU)
ADI: Not specified (vitamin)
ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)
Research & Official Documents
Official evaluations and scientific research:
Search research databases:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ascorbic Acid (E300)?
Ascorbic Acid (E300) is a antioxidant used in food products. It is vitamin and synthetic or natural. An essential vitamin (Vitamin C) naturally present in many fruits and vegetables. Humans cannot synthesize it and must obtain it from diet.
Where is Ascorbic Acid found naturally?
Ascorbic Acid is naturally found in citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, broccoli, tomatoes. An essential vitamin (Vitamin C) naturally present in many fruits and vegetables. Humans cannot synthesize it and must obtain it from diet.
What is the ADI for Ascorbic Acid?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Ascorbic Acid is Not specified (vitamin) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.
What foods contain Ascorbic Acid?
Ascorbic Acid is used in various food categories including Dairy products. It is used as a antioxidant in these products.
Is Ascorbic Acid the same as Vitamin C?
Yes, Ascorbic Acid is also known as Vitamin C, L-Ascorbic acid. These are different names for the same substance.
Related Additives
Other antioxidants in our database: