Sodium erythorbate

Sodium erythorbate (CAS 6381-77-7), also sold as sodium isoascorbate and labeled E316 in food applications, is an antioxidant used across food processing and personal care manufacturing.

It functions primarily as an oxygen scavenger, preventing oxidative discoloration and rancidity in finished products. In cured and processed meats, it accelerates the color-fixing reaction of nitrites.

This ensures consistent pink coloration and extending shelf life in products like hot dogs, bacon, and deli slices. Beverage manufacturers use it to protect flavor integrity and prevent browning.

It is commonly applied in fruit juices, soft drinks, and canned goods. In frozen seafood and fish processing, it inhibits oxidative spoilage during cold storage and transport for global distribution.

Personal care formulators incorporate it into topical products as an antioxidant stabilizer to protect active ingredients and extend product shelf life in various cosmetic and skincare applications.

Sodium erythorbate is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granule. Standard commercial grades include food-grade meeting FCC and BP specifications, with purity typically at 99% or higher.

Packaging ranges from small bags to bulk quantities suited to industrial food processing operations. This versatile chemical remains a staple for maintaining quality and safety in modern manufacturing.