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E301 Ascorbic acid sodium salt

Ascorbine; sodium ascorbate.

Origin:
Sodium salt of ascorbic acid (vitamin C, a n atural acid), which occurs naturally in most fruits and vegetables. Commercially synthesised by bacterial fermentation of glucose, followed by chemical oxidation.

Function & characteristics:
Anti-oxidant and bread enhancer. It prevents browning of fruits as well as formation of nitrosamines in meat. Ascorbic acid is vitamin C; however, it cannot be added as a vitamin supplement when labelled E300.

Products:
Many different products

Acceptable Daily Intake:
No limit.

Side effects:
No side effects known in the concentrations used.

Dietary restrictions:
None – ascorbic acid and ascorbates can be consumed by all religious groups, vegans and vegetarians.