E300
E300 , Ascorbic Acid
Why this classification
Vitamin C. Safe. But forms benzene with E211.
Products containing E300
Common uses in industrial food
Ascorbic Acid (E300) is used by food manufacturers for preventing fats and oils from oxidising and going rancid, common in margarine, biscuits, snack foods and cured meat. It is most often listed in the ingredient panel as E300, Ascorbic Acid, or under one of its trade names. On a NutriDécrypte product page, this additive contributes to the additives axis (20% of the overall A to E grade), and triggers a label warning when its EFSA risk level is medium or high.
If you want to limit your exposure to this additive, the simplest tactic is to read the ingredients list (not just the front-of-pack), and to favour products graded A or B in our independent catalog. Less processed, NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 categories rarely contain it.
Related additives in the same family
Other E-numbers classified as antioxidant in the EU food additives registry. Their risk profile and behaviour on a label are often similar.
Frequently asked questions
Is E300 (Ascorbic Acid) safe?
EFSA classifies the risk level of E300 as low risk in its latest review. Always read the latest official opinion before drawing conclusions for your own diet, and consult a registered dietitian for medical questions.
What is E300 typically used for?
Food manufacturers use Ascorbic Acid primarily for preventing fats and oils from oxidising and going rancid, common in margarine, biscuits, snack foods and cured meat. You will most often find it in ultra-processed foods (NOVA group 4) and rarely in unprocessed or minimally processed products (NOVA 1 or 2).
How can I avoid E300 on a label?
Look for the code E300 or its full name Ascorbic Acid in the ingredients list, usually printed in small font on the back of the pack. Cooking from raw ingredients, choosing NOVA-1 or NOVA-2 alternatives, and using the NutriDécrypte rankings to filter by grade A or B are the three most reliable strategies.