Ingredient · Updated

Sodium ascorbate

Positive in 3 products Neutral in 2

Found in 5 products

What is Sodium ascorbate?

Sodium ascorbate is a form of vitamin C, which combines ascorbic acid with sodium to create a buffered vitamin C. It is often made by mixing ascorbic acid with sodium bicarbonate.

It is used in foods and supplements to provide vitamin C without the acidity of ascorbic acid, making it gentler on the stomach. The health evidence generally supports its efficacy in delivering vitamin C, although large doses of vitamin C, whether from sodium ascorbate or other forms, can cause gastrointestinal discomfort.

When you see sodium ascorbate on a label, it's usually there for its antioxidant properties, helping to preserve freshness or enhance nutritional value.

Commonly found in: Vitamin supplements, Processed foods, Beverages, Fortified cereals

What to watch

  • High intakes can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort such as diarrhea.

Benefits

  • A source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient.
  • Less acidic than ascorbic acid, making it gentler on the stomach.
FDA

Sodium ascorbate is recognized as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) when used in accordance with good manufacturing practices.

Research

While sodium ascorbate is effective in providing vitamin C, there is limited evidence to suggest significant differences in health benefits compared to other forms of vitamin C.

Vegan

Sodium ascorbate is typically derived from non-animal sources and is suitable for vegans.

Sources: GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Database

Scout's take

Sodium ascorbate is a form of vitamin C used as an antioxidant. It helps preserve food and provides vitamin C, which is essential for immune function. It is less acidic than ascorbic acid, making it easier on the stomach.

The case against

The case for

Provides vitamin C, which supports immune health and acts as an antioxidant.

from the analysis of Quaker Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar · echoed in 1 other analysis

Provides vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health.

from the analysis of Quaker Oatmeal Squares Cinnamon

Provides vitamin C, supporting immune function and antioxidant protection.

from the analysis of Quaker Oatmeal Squares Honey Nut

More from Scout's analyses

Sodium ascorbate is a form of vitamin C that supports immune health and antioxidant protection. It is beneficial for overall health and is less acidic than ascorbic acid. The processing retains its beneficial properties.

from the analysis of Abbott Optigro grow & gain vanilla shake

Sodium Ascorbate is a form of Vitamin C known for its antioxidant properties. It helps in brightening the skin and protecting against environmental damage. It is beneficial for skin brightening and protection.

from the analysis of Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body and Face Lotion Retinol Face and Body Lotion with Peptide Complex

Sodium ascorbate is a form of vitamin C used as a preservative and antioxidant. It is less acidic than ascorbic acid and provides vitamin C. It helps maintain product freshness.

from the analysis of Quaker Oatmeal Squares Honey Nut

All 5 products with Sodium ascorbate

Where Sodium ascorbate shows up

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