Ascorbic Acid E300
vitamin — Primarily synthetic or natural.
L-Ascorbic acid
CAS: 50-81-7
Factual Regulatory Reference
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 is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.
What Is Ascorbic Acid?
Ascorbic acid (E300) is vitamin C, an essential water-soluble vitamin that serves a dual function as both a critical human nutrient and a widely used food antioxidant. Commercially, ascorbic acid for food use is produced through a multistep chemical synthesis from glucose or through fermentation processes. It prevents oxidative discoloration of cut fruits and vegetables, inhibits rancidity in fats and oils, and is used to improve bread dough properties in flour treatment. Ascorbic acid and its derivatives (sodium ascorbate E301, calcium ascorbate E302, fatty acid esters E304) are authorized in virtually all regulatory systems globally as a safe antioxidant and vitamin source. Because ascorbic acid is an essential nutrient with well-understood metabolism and safety, JECFA has not set a numerical ADI for its use as a food additive.
? Did You Know?
Ascorbic Acid occurs naturally in citrus fruits and strawberries. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.
Ascorbic Acid is produced through fermentation — the same biological process used to make bread, beer, and yogurt.
Beyond food, Ascorbic Acid is also used in cosmetics, medicine. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.
Detailed Regulatory Assessment
European Union (EFSA)
Widely permitted in most food categories
United States (FDA)
Also used as a nutrient supplement
Japan (MHLW)
Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)
International Standard (JECFA)
mg/kg body weight per day
European Standard (EFSA)
Natural Occurrence
An essential vitamin (Vitamin C) naturally present in many fruits and vegetables. Humans cannot synthesize it and must obtain it from diet.
Manufacturing
Commercially produced by fermentation of glucose using microorganisms, or by the Reichstein process (chemical synthesis from glucose).
Applications Beyond Food
Widely used in skincare for its antioxidant and skin-brightening properties.
Used as a vitamin supplement and antioxidant in pharmaceutical formulations.