Ingredient

Sodium Eythorbate

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add sodium erythorbate to cured meats like hot dogs and sausages to help …

What is Sodium Eythorbate?

Sodium erythorbate is a synthetic antioxidant. It is the sodium salt of erythorbic acid, a stereoisomer of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). It is produced commercially through a fermentation process using sugar.

Is Sodium Eythorbate vegan?

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

Is Sodium Eythorbate gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Sodium Eythorbate a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Sodium Eythorbate used for?

Manufacturers add sodium erythorbate to cured meats like hot dogs and sausages to help them retain their pink color and to speed up the curing process.

Is Sodium Eythorbate safe?

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

Why it's used

Manufacturers add sodium erythorbate to cured meats like hot dogs and sausages to help them retain their pink color and to speed up the curing process. It acts as an antioxidant, preventing spoilage and maintaining the desired color and flavor.

Health notes

Sodium erythorbate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. It is an antioxidant that helps preserve food. JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has evaluated it and established an acceptable daily intake. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects at typical consumption levels.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Sodium Eythorbate

Compare products →

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: 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.