Ascorbic acid
Learn what Ascorbic acid (E300) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Ascorbic acid?
E 300, ascorbic acid is a food additive belonging to the antioxidant category. It is the most widespread vitamin in nature, especially in the plant kingdom. Vitamin C can also be synthesized in the animal kingdom, but humans do not have the ability to synthesize it.
Why is Ascorbic acid added to food?
Ascorbic acid (E300) is a antioxidant commonly found in: Infant products, products with oils and fats.
Permitted quantity: There is no limit to the recommended daily dosage.
Is Ascorbic acid safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects at the quantities used in foods.
Is Ascorbic acid banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Ascorbic acid okay for kids?
Permitted in foods for infants and young children, up to 300 milligrams per kilogram of product.
Common foods that contain Ascorbic acid
- Infant products
- products with oils and fats
How to spot Ascorbic acid on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E300
- Ascorbic acid
Common misspellings to watch for:
- ascorbic acld
- ascorbie acid
- dscorbic acid
- ascorbic aeid
- ascorbic dcid
- a$corbic acid
- ascorbic acid
- ascorblc acid
- aseorbic acid
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, or cramps. • Can cause allergic reactions including skin rashes, itching, or swelling in individuals sensitive to vitamin C. • People with kidney conditions should avoid excessive consumption, as it may contribute to kidney stone formation due to high oxalic acid levels. • High doses can interfere with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. • Excessive consumption of ascorbic acid can lead to vitamin C accumulation in the body, causing metabolic overload and potential long-term toxic effects.
Also known as
- ascorbic acld
- ascorbie acid
- dscorbic acid
- ascorbic aeid
- ascorbic dcid
- a$corbic acid
- ascorbic acid
- ascorblc acid
- aseorbic acid
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Ascorbic acid? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E300 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Ascorbic acid
- Is Ascorbic acid safe to eat?
- No secondary effects at the quantities used in foods.
- Is Ascorbic acid banned anywhere?
- Ascorbic acid is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Ascorbic acid safe for children?
- Permitted in foods for infants and young children, up to 300 milligrams per kilogram of product.
- How do I spot Ascorbic acid on a food label?
- Look for E300, Ascorbic acid in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: ascorbic acld, ascorbie acid, dscorbic acid.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.