Sodium ascorbate
Learn what Sodium ascorbate (E301) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Sodium ascorbate?
A food additive in the antioxidant category, with color stabilization properties. It is the sodium salt of ascorbic acid (E 300), added in prescribed amounts to partially or fully dehydrated milk, refrigerated, frozen, or canned vegetables and fruits, bakery products, pasta, fresh minced meat preparations, beer, juices, fruit nectars, and concentrates.
Why is Sodium ascorbate added to food?
Sodium ascorbate (E301) 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 Sodium ascorbate safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects at the quantities used in foods.
Is Sodium ascorbate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Sodium ascorbate okay for kids?
Not permitted in foods for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Sodium ascorbate
- Infant products
- products with oils and fats
How to spot Sodium ascorbate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E301
- Sodium ascorbate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- sodium ascorbate
- sodlum ascorbate
- $odium ascorbate
- sodium dscorbate
- sodium a$corbate
- sodium aseorbate
- sodium ascorbdte
Better alternatives
• Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. • People with kidney conditions should avoid excessive consumption, as it may contribute to kidney stone formation due to high sodium levels. • May cause allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or swelling in individuals sensitive to vitamin C or sodium. • High doses of sodium ascorbate can interfere with anticoagulant medications, increasing the risk of bleeding. • Excessive sodium intake may lead to water retention and high blood pressure, especially in individuals sensitive to salt.
Also known as
- sodium ascorbate
- sodlum ascorbate
- $odium ascorbate
- sodium dscorbate
- sodium a$corbate
- sodium aseorbate
- sodium ascorbdte
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Sodium ascorbate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E301 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Sodium ascorbate
- Is Sodium ascorbate safe to eat?
- No secondary effects at the quantities used in foods.
- Is Sodium ascorbate banned anywhere?
- Sodium ascorbate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Sodium ascorbate safe for children?
- Not permitted in foods for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Sodium ascorbate on a food label?
- Look for E301, Sodium ascorbate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: sodium ascorbate, sodlum ascorbate, $odium ascorbate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.