Ascorbic Acid (E 300)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: Ascorbic acid (E 300) is vitamin C. It is added to foods to slow oxidation, protect color, and restore or add vitamin C.

What the evidence review says

Ascorbic acid is vitamin C, added to foods to keep them from browning and to add the vitamin. EFSA found no genotoxicity, no long-term toxicity or cancer concern in animal studies, and no need for a numerical daily intake limit. A Swedish study linked high-dose vitamin C tablets with kidney stones in men; that is a different exposure from the amounts used in food.

No notable concern as a food additive. EFSA found no genotoxicity, no chronic toxicity or carcinogenicity in animal studies, and no need for a numerical ADI. Separately, a Swedish cohort study linked use of high-dose vitamin C supplement tablets with a higher rate of first kidney stones in men. That is a supplement exposure, not the amount used to keep food from browning.

• Source: Thomas LD et al., JAMA Intern Med, 2013 · doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2013.2296

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This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.