Ingredient · E301

Preservative Sodium Ascorbate

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Sodium ascorbate is used as an antioxidant to preserve food and prevent spoilage by …

What is Preservative Sodium Ascorbate?

Sodium ascorbate is the sodium salt of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). It is produced when ascorbic acid is neutralized with a sodium-containing base, such as sodium bicarbonate or sodium hydroxide. It is often manufactured industrially.

Is Preservative Sodium Ascorbate vegan?

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

Is Preservative Sodium Ascorbate gluten-free?

Sodium ascorbate is not derived from any of the 9 major allergens and does not contain gluten.

What is Preservative Sodium Ascorbate used for?

Sodium ascorbate is used as an antioxidant to preserve food and prevent spoilage by inhibiting oxidation.

Is Preservative Sodium Ascorbate safe?

Sodium ascorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food additive.

Why it's used

Sodium ascorbate is used as an antioxidant to preserve food and prevent spoilage by inhibiting oxidation. It helps maintain the color and flavor of processed foods. It is commonly found in cured meats, baked goods, and dried fruits.

Health notes

Sodium ascorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food additive. It is a source of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated sodium ascorbate and found it to be safe for consumption. High doses of vitamin C can cause digestive upset in some individuals, but this is not typically seen with levels found in food.

Allergen info

Sodium ascorbate is not derived from any of the 9 major allergens and does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Preservative Sodium Ascorbate

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Last updated: October 5, 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.