E304 · Ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E304?
Ascorbyl palmitate and ascorbyl stearate (E304) are fat-soluble forms of vitamin C created by attaching a fatty acid to ascorbic acid, which lets them dissolve into oils and fats. In food, they are used as antioxidants to prevent fats and oils from turning rancid, especially in snacks and oil-based products. They are also popular in skincare formulations for their antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties.
Also appears on labels as: Ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, Ascorbyl palmitate, Ascorbyl stearate, Vitamin C palmitate, Vitamin C stearate, Ascorbyl fatty acid esters, Palmitate ester of ascorbic acid, Stearate ester of ascorbic acid, Ascorbyl palmitate (Vitamin C ester), Ascorbyl stearate (Vitamin C ester), AP, AS.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels.
Frequently asked questions
Is E304 safe?
Our overall verdict for E304 (Ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate) 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 E304 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate — vegan: no, vegetarian: yes, halal: no, kosher: no, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E304 and why is it used?
Ascorbyl palmitate and ascorbyl stearate (E304) are fat-soluble forms of vitamin C created by attaching a fatty acid to ascorbic acid, which lets them dissolve into oils and fats. In food, they are used as antioxidants to prevent fats and oils from turning rancid, especially in snacks and oil-based products. They are also popular in skincare formulations for their antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties.
Does E304 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate.
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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.