E302 · Calcium ascorbate

EatMatrix verdict
Safe
Last reviewed:
EatMatrix research team
WHO
Safe
FDA
Safe
EFSA
Safe
FSANZ
Safe
Japan
Safe
UK FSA
Safe
Health Canada
Safe
HalalVeganKosherNut-freeDairy-freeVegetarianGluten-free

What is E302?

Calcium ascorbate (E302) is a buffered, less acidic form of vitamin C made by combining ascorbic acid with calcium. It is used in food as an antioxidant to preserve color and flavor, and as a dietary supplement that is gentler on the stomach than plain vitamin C while also contributing a small amount of calcium. It supports the same immune and antioxidant functions as other forms of vitamin C.

Also appears on labels as: Calcium ascorbate, Ascorbic acid calcium salt, Vitamin C calcium salt, Ca ascorbate, Food grade calcium ascorbate, E302, E 302, E-302, INS 302, Calcium L-ascorbate, Additivo alimentare E302, Additif alimentaire E302.

What the evidence says

  • Generally recognized as safe at typical food and supplement levels.

Frequently asked questions

Is E302 safe?

Our overall verdict for E302 (Calcium 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 E302 vegan, halal or gluten-free?

According to our ingredient data for Calcium 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 E302 and why is it used?

Calcium ascorbate (E302) is a buffered, less acidic form of vitamin C made by combining ascorbic acid with calcium. It is used in food as an antioxidant to preserve color and flavor, and as a dietary supplement that is gentler on the stomach than plain vitamin C while also contributing a small amount of calcium. It supports the same immune and antioxidant functions as other forms of vitamin C.

Does E302 contain allergens?

No known allergens are recorded for Calcium 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.