Fatty Acid Esters Of Ascorbic Acid
Also known as: E304, ascorbic acid esters of fatty acid
EFSA's 2015 ANS Panel re-evaluation and 2020 follow-up concluded there is no safety concern for ascorbyl palmitate (E304(i)) and ascorbyl stearate (E304(ii)) at authorized uses and levels. They hydrolyze pre-systemically to ascorbic acid plus fatty acids.
What it is
Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid — primarily ascorbyl palmitate (E304(i)) and ascorbyl stearate (E304(ii)); fat-soluble derivatives of vitamin C.
Antioxidant for fats and oils; stabilizes flavors and fat-soluble vitamins.
What regulators actually say
"There is no safety concern for the use of ascorbyl palmitate (E 304(i)) and ascorbyl stearate (E 304(ii)) as food additives at the authorized uses and use levels."
"EFSA 2020 follow-up opinion on ascorbyl palmitate (E 304(i)) for foods for infants below 16 weeks and reaffirmation of safety for general population."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS antioxidant (21 CFR 182.3149)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized (E304); no safety concern at permitted uses (EFSA 2015, 2020)
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