Vitamin C Ascorbic Acid

Ascorbic acid (CAS 50-81-7), commercially recognized as E300, is a water-soluble vitamin and antioxidant.

Where is Vitamin C Ascorbic Acid used?

• Food processing: added to baked goods, beverages and cured meats to inhibit discoloration
• Pharmaceuticals: active ingredient in vitamin C supplements and stabilizing excipient in injectable formulations and tablet coatings
• Personal care: incorporated into serums and moisturizers where its antioxidant activity protects formulations from oxidation
• Beverages: acidulant that adjusts pH and contributes mild tartness in fruit drinks and fortified waters
• It prevents oxidative degradation in finished products and raw material blends.
• Used in jams, marmalades, and sauces.
• In cosmetics, it is reported to lighten the skin and help reduce pigmentation spots by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase.
• Supports collagen production in cosmetic formulations.

Good to know: Recognized grades include USP, BP, Ph. Eur. and FCC standards, covering pharmaceutical and food-grade procurement requirements for global distribution.

Formulation notes

• To obtain a neutral pH beverage, add 477 mg of sodium bicarbonate per 1000 mg of L-ascorbic acid (ideal stoichiometric ratio).

Typical specification

• L-ascorbic acid content: not less than 99% (EU purity criteria).
• Available in fine and coarse granulation.
• Specific optical rotation: between +20.5° and +21.5° (EU purity criteria).
• Heavy metals: not more than 10 mg/kg (EU purity criteria).

Regulatory status

• In the EU and Germany, there is no regulation on how much vitamin C may be used in food supplements or for food fortification.
• When vitamin C is added to cosmetic products, it is subject to the mandatory safety assessment for cosmetics.
• Food-grade ascorbic acid complies with international specifications including FCC, USP and JECFA.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Sensitive to heat, light and oxygen; must be handled with care to maintain stability during processing and storage.
• Should be stored in a cool, dry place in tightly closed containers, protected from light and moisture.

Frequently asked questions about Vitamin C Ascorbic Acid

What is the regulatory status of ascorbic acid in the United States?

It is recognized as GRAS in the United States.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.