Allervibe
E301
Sodium ascorbate
The sodium salt of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), used as an antioxidant in food.
i Additive Details
| Is E301 Sodium ascorbate safe?
Regarded as safe at the levels used in food, and the vitamin C part is an ordinary dietary nutrient. It adds a small amount of sodium, which only matters on a strict sodium-restricted diet at very high intakes. Very large doses of vitamin C from supplements, rather than from the additive, can cause gastrointestinal upset.
| Uses
Slows oxidation, colour loss and rancidity in cured and processed meats, canned fruit and vegetables, frozen fish, bakery products and beverages. It is less acidic and more soluble in water than ascorbic acid, so it is chosen where added sourness would change the taste of the product. It also contributes vitamin C activity.
| Interactions
Frequently combined with sodium nitrite (E250) in cured meat, where it speeds up curing and reduces the formation of nitrosamines. It works well alongside sequestrants such as citric acid (E330) that bind the metal ions which trigger oxidation.
| Origin
Made by neutralising ascorbic acid with sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate. The ascorbic acid itself is produced industrially from glucose through fermentation and chemical steps, so the finished additive is not derived from a common allergen.
| Daily Intake
EFSA and JECFA have not set a numerical ADI, concluding that ascorbic acid and its sodium and calcium salts are acceptable at the levels needed for their technical function. The reference intake of vitamin C for adults is around 80 to 110 mg per day.
Information is sourced from public regulatory bodies (EFSA, FDA, WHO) and is for reference only. Always read the package and consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
Related additives
- E321 Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) A synthetic phenolic antioxidant used to delay rancidity in fats, oils and fat-containing foods.
- E302 Calcium ascorbate The calcium salt of ascorbic acid (vitamin C), used as a food antioxidant.
- E304 Ascorbyl palmitate A fat-soluble form of vitamin C, made by joining ascorbic acid to palmitic acid.
- E306 Tocopherol-rich extract A natural mixture of tocopherols (vitamin E) obtained from vegetable oils and used as an antioxidant.
- E307 Alpha-tocopherol A single form of vitamin E, normally produced synthetically, used as an antioxidant in fats and oils.
- E392 Extracts of rosemary A plant extract from rosemary leaves, used as a natural antioxidant in fatty foods.
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