E301 · Sodium ascorbate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E301?
Sodium ascorbate (E301) is the sodium salt of vitamin C, used in food as an antioxidant to preserve color and freshness, particularly in cured meats and processed foods. It is gentler on the stomach than plain ascorbic acid because it is less acidic. It is also used as a supplement to provide vitamin C.
Also appears on labels as: Sodium ascorbate, Na-ascorbate, Sodium L-ascorbate, Food grade sodium ascorbate, Sodium ascorbate powder, Sodium ascorbate solution, Additivo alimentare sodium ascorbate, Additif alimentaire sodium ascorbate, Lebensmittelzusatzstoff sodium ascorbate, E301, E 301, E-301.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food levels.
- Contributes a small amount of sodium; a consideration mainly for those on strict sodium-restricted diets.
Frequently asked questions
Is E301 safe?
Our overall verdict for E301 (Sodium ascorbate) 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 E301 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium ascorbate — 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 E301 and why is it used?
Sodium ascorbate (E301) is the sodium salt of vitamin C, used in food as an antioxidant to preserve color and freshness, particularly in cured meats and processed foods. It is gentler on the stomach than plain ascorbic acid because it is less acidic. It is also used as a supplement to provide vitamin C.
Does E301 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium ascorbate.
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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.