Calcium ascorbate dihydrate

Calcium ascorbate dihydrate (CAS 5743-28-2), listed as E302 in food additive regulations, is a calcium salt form of vitamin C used as an antioxidant and preservative across food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural applications.

Unlike ascorbic acid, it delivers vitamin C in a buffered, non-acidic form, making it suitable for acid-sensitive formulations and mineral-fortified products. In food manufacturing, it prevents oxidative discoloration and rancidity.

This additive is particularly useful in processed fruits, beverages, and meat products where pH neutrality is a formulation requirement. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a vitamin C source in effervescent tablets and chewables.

It is often selected for dietary supplements where gastric tolerability is a product differentiator. In animal feed, it functions as a stabilized ascorbate source that resists degradation during pelleting and storage.

This stability makes it superior to free ascorbic acid in many industrial feed applications. Crop nutrition and agrochemical formulators also incorporate it as a bioavailable calcium-vitamin C source in foliar spray products.

The material is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline powder. Standard grades include food-grade (FCC), USP, and Ph. Eur., with food-grade being the most commercially prevalent grade for global distribution.

Bulk supply is typically available in 25 kg bags, with specifications varying by purity level and intended regulatory market. This ensures compliance with international safety standards for diverse industrial uses.