E300 · Ascorbic acid
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E300?
Ascorbic acid (E300), also known as vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin and antioxidant that the body needs for collagen formation, immune function, and wound healing. In food it is widely used as an antioxidant to prevent browning and preserve freshness in juices, cured meats, and baked goods, in addition to its natural presence in fruits and vegetables. It is also used as a nutritional supplement to prevent vitamin C deficiency.
Also appears on labels as: Ascorbic acid, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin C, L-Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbate, Sodium Ascorbate, Calcium Ascorbate, Potassium Ascorbate, Ascorbic Acid Powder, Ascorbic Acid Solution, E300, E 300.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food and supplement levels.
- Very high supplemental doses (well beyond food-additive amounts) can cause digestive upset in some people.
Frequently asked questions
Is E300 safe?
Our overall verdict for E300 (Ascorbic acid) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E300 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Ascorbic acid — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E300 and why is it used?
Ascorbic acid (E300), also known as vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin and antioxidant that the body needs for collagen formation, immune function, and wound healing. In food it is widely used as an antioxidant to prevent browning and preserve freshness in juices, cured meats, and baked goods, in addition to its natural presence in fruits and vegetables. It is also used as a nutritional supplement to prevent vitamin C deficiency.
Does E300 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Ascorbic acid.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.