E316 · Sodium erythorbate
- WHO
- Safe in moderation
- FDA
- Safe in moderation
- EFSA
- Safe in moderation
- FSANZ
- Safe in moderation
- Japan
- Safe in moderation
- UK FSA
- Safe in moderation
- Health Canada
- Safe in moderation
What is E316?
Sodium erythorbate is the sodium salt of erythorbic acid, used as an antioxidant in cured and processed meats, and in some beverages, to prevent oxidation and help stabilize color. It is chemically related to vitamin C but has little to no vitamin C activity in the body. It is widely regarded as safe for food use at approved levels.
Also appears on labels as: Sodium erythorbate, Erythorbic acid sodium salt, Isoascorbic acid sodium salt, Erythorbate sodium, Sodium isoascorbate, C6H7NaO6, E316, E 316, E-316, INS 316, Sodium erythorbate food grade, Food additive E316.
What the evidence says
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-additive levels.
- Adds a small amount of dietary sodium, a minor consideration for sodium-restricted diets.
Frequently asked questions
Is E316 safe?
Our overall verdict for E316 (Sodium erythorbate) is “Safe in moderation”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe in moderation; WHO: safe in moderation; EFSA: safe in moderation; FSANZ: safe in moderation; Japan: safe in moderation; UK FSA: safe in moderation; Health Canada: safe in moderation.
Is E316 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Sodium erythorbate — 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 E316 and why is it used?
Sodium erythorbate is the sodium salt of erythorbic acid, used as an antioxidant in cured and processed meats, and in some beverages, to prevent oxidation and help stabilize color. It is chemically related to vitamin C but has little to no vitamin C activity in the body. It is widely regarded as safe for food use at approved levels.
Does E316 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Sodium erythorbate.
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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.