Ascorbic acid

Ascorbic acid (CAS 50-81-7), commercially recognized as E300, is a water-soluble vitamin and antioxidant used across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing. It prevents oxidative degradation in finished products and raw material blends. This essential additive helps in extending shelf life and maintaining product integrity across various industrial applications. In food processing, it is added to baked goods, beverages, and cured meats to inhibit discoloration.

The compound effectively prevents rancidity, often replacing or supplementing synthetic antioxidants in complex formulations. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as an active ingredient in vitamin C supplements and as a stabilizing excipient. It is frequently utilized in injectable formulations and tablet coatings to ensure stability. In personal care, it is incorporated into serums and moisturizers where its antioxidant activity helps protect formulations from oxidation.

This protection is vital during storage to maintain the efficacy of the end product. Beverage producers also use it as an acidulant to adjust pH and contribute a mild tartness in fruit drinks and fortified waters. The material is supplied as a white crystalline powder and in granulated forms suited to direct compression in tablet manufacturing. Recognized grades include USP, BP, Ph. Eur., and FCC standards.

These certifications cover pharmaceutical and food-grade procurement requirements for global distribution. Fine and coarse powder mesh sizes are commonly available to meet specific blending and dissolution requirements for manufacturers.