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 Calcium Ascorbate?

Calcium ascorbate is the calcium salt of ascorbic acid, used as a non-acidic antioxidant in food products where acidity must be controlled. It serves as both an antioxidant and a calcium fortification agent, contributing to both shelf stability and nutritional value. JECFA considers it acceptable with no numerical ADI. EFSA confirmed safety in its 2015 ascorbate group review. Calcium ascorbate is also marketed as a dietary supplement due to its dual function providing vitamin C and calcium simultaneously.

? Did You Know?

Beyond food, Calcium Ascorbate is also used in cosmetics, medicine, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

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European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis (varies by food category) mg/kg

Re-evaluated together with E300 and E301 in 2015 EFSA opinion

Official EFSA Link

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United States (FDA)

approved GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe)

Approved for use in food as antioxidant and nutrient

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Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Approved as existing food additive

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified

Everyday Perspective

For a 60kg adult, this limit is roughly equivalent to consuming:

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: chemical synthesis

Produced by reacting ascorbic acid with calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide to form the calcium salt. The resulting compound is a white to slightly yellow powder.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Stabilizer and antioxidant

Medical

Calcium and vitamin C dietary supplement

Household

Nutritional supplement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calcium Ascorbate (E302)?

Calcium Ascorbate (E302) is a antioxidant used in food products. It is vitamin derivative and synthetic. Synthetically produced calcium salt of L-ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). Non-acidic, gentle form of vitamin C. The ascorbic acid portion is identical to naturally occurring vitamin C found in many fruits and vegetables.

What foods contain Calcium Ascorbate?

Calcium Ascorbate is used in various food categories including Meat preparations, Fruit and vegetables. It is used as a antioxidant in these products.

Is Calcium Ascorbate the same as Calcium salt of ascorbic acid?

Yes, Calcium Ascorbate is also known as Calcium salt of ascorbic acid, Calcium vitamin C. These are different names for the same substance.