Ingredient · E301

Erythorbic Acid

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use erythorbic acid primarily as an antioxidant to preserve color and flavor in …

What is Erythorbic Acid?

Erythorbic acid is a food additive that is an isomer of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). It is produced commercially by the fermentation of a sugar source, typically glucose, using specific microorganisms.

Is Erythorbic Acid vegan?

Erythorbic Acid is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Erythorbic Acid gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Erythorbic Acid a major allergen?

Erythorbic acid is not derived from any of the major allergens recognized by the FDA.

What is Erythorbic Acid used for?

Manufacturers use erythorbic acid primarily as an antioxidant to preserve color and flavor in foods.

Is Erythorbic Acid safe?

Erythorbic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use erythorbic acid primarily as an antioxidant to preserve color and flavor in foods. It helps prevent spoilage and maintain the desired appearance in products like cured meats, beverages, baked goods, and processed fruits and vegetables.

Health notes

Erythorbic acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. It is metabolized differently than Vitamin C and does not provide the same vitamin activity. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated erythorbic acid and its salts, and have established acceptable daily intakes. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical dietary levels.

Allergen info

Erythorbic acid is not derived from any of the major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Erythorbic Acid

Compare products →
Amazon links are paid links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. About these links

Learn more

Ultra-Processed Foods and the NOVA Scale →

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.