Ascorbyl stearate

E number E304(ii)INS 305CAS 25395-66-8

Listed as an antioxidant by Codex and the US.

Listed as antioxidants (US, Codex) · preservatives (CA)
Chemical structure of Ascorbyl stearate, from PubChem compound 54725318
Structure from PubChem CID 54725318 (National Library of Medicine, public domain). A depiction of one compound: where a listing covers a family, or a substance has no single structure, this page shows none.

Ascorbyl stearate is the stearic acid ester of ascorbic acid, used as an antioxidant in fats and oils. Attaching a long fatty acid makes it soluble in fat, where ascorbic acid on its own is not.

Where it is and isn’t permitted

Status of Ascorbyl stearate by jurisdiction. Every jurisdiction this site covers is listed, including those where the substance does not appear.
JurisdictionStatusScope and limitsCitation
Australia and New ZealandFood Standards Australia New ZealandNo listed food uses foundThis site has not matched this substance to any food use on this jurisdiction’s list of authorised food additives. A food additive may be used only in foods that list names. Flavourings, enzymes, processing aids and added nutrients are regulated separately and do not appear on it.Related listing with permitted uses here: Ascorbyl palmitate (E304). This site cannot tell whether that listing covers this exact form.
CanadaHealth CanadaPermitted, with conditions

no numerical limit (good manufacturing practice)

2 permitted uses

Show every permitted use
  • In: Calorie-reduced margarine; Margarine. Purpose: Preservative. Limit: If used singly, the amount not to exceed 0.02% of the fat content. If used in combination with ascorbyl palmitate, the total combined amount not to exceed 0.02% of the fat content. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11), item A.4(a)
  • In: Fats and oils, except milk fat, olive oil and suet; Lard; Mono- and diglycerides; Shortening. Purpose: Preservative. Limit: Good Manufacturing Practice. — Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11), item A.4(b)
Health Canada, List of Permitted Preservatives (List 11)and 1 further provisionretrieved 2026-10-17
European UnionEuropean Commission / EFSAPermitted, with conditions

73 food categories

Show every food category
  • 1.3 unflavoured fermented milk products heat-treated after fermentation — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.4 flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.5 dehydrated milk as defined by directive 2001/114/ec — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 other creams — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.1 unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16Authorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 processed cheese — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 1.7.6 cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 10.2 processed eggs and egg products — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML =10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid;E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressedas guanylic acid.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.1.2 salt substitutes — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.4 Mustard — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.6 Sauces — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury-based sandwich spreads — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 12.9 Protein products excluding products covered in category 1 8 — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.2 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 (excluding products from food category 13.1.5.) — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 13.3 Total diet replacement for weight control food as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juicesAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar productsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured_drinksAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 otherAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perryAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wineAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 MeadAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EU) 2019/787Authorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised winesAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinksAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktailsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic beverages including mixtures of alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages and other alcoholic beverages based on distilled alcohol with alcoholic strength by volume less than 15 %Authorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 420, E421, E 953, E 965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato- cereal- flour- or starch-based snacks — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in category 1 3 and 4 — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 17.1 food supplements supplied in a solid form excluding food supplements for infants and young children’,Authorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 food supplements supplied in a liquid form excluding food supplements for Infants and young children — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17 — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.1 Processed foods not covered by categories 18.2 and 18.3, excluding foods for infants and young children — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.2 Meal replacement for weight control as referred to in Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 18.3 Food specially produced to reduce the gluten content of gluten-containing ingredients or substitute the gluten-containing ingredientsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. Including dry pasta.
  • 2.1 fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milk fat) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis. except virgin oils and olive oils.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 3 edible ices — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.1 dried fruit and vegetablesAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. E 410, E 412, E 415 and E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 fruit and vegetables in vinegar oil or brine — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.4.1 fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.5.4 nut butters and nut spreads — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 4.2.6 processed potato products — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/ECAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only energy-reduced or with no added sugars.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath freshening micro-sweetsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 chewing gum — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit-based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.2.2 starches — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.3 breakfast cereals — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.4.4 Potato Gnocchi — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis. only fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.4 Potato GnocchiAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.5 Noodles — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.6 Batters — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 6.7 pre-cooked or processed cereals — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 7.1 Bread and rollsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis.
  • 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, Fehér és Félbarna kenyerek — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis. only Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated processed meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat productsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans — several limitsAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. ML = quantum satis; except E 425 ML = 10000 mg/kg; E 620 to E 625, ML = 10000 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as glutamic acid; E 626 to E 635, ML = 500 mg/kg individually or in combination, expressed as guanylic acid.
  • 9.3 fish roeAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I, Additives. only processed fish roe.
Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex IIand 72 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
Great BritainFood Standards Agency / Food Standards ScotlandPermitted, with conditions

71 food categories

Show every food category
  • 1.3 Unflavoured fermented milk products, heat-treated after fermentation — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.4 Flavoured fermented milk products including heat-treated products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.5 Dehydrated milk as defined by Directive 2001/114/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis.
  • 1.6.3 Other creams — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.1 Unripened cheese excluding products falling in category 16 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except mozzarella.
  • 1.7.5 Processed cheese — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.7.6 Cheese products (excluding products falling in category 16) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 1.8 Dairy analogues, including beverage whiteners — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 10.2 Processed eggs and egg products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 11.2 Other sugars and syrups — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.1.2 Salt substitutes — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.2.2 Seasonings and condiments — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.3 Vinegars and diluted acetic acid (diluted with water to 4-30 % by volume) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.4 Mustard — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.6 Sauces — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.7 Salads and savoury based sandwich spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.8 Yeast and yeast products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 12.9 Protein products, excluding products covered in category 1.8 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.2 Dietary foods for special medical purposes defined in Directive 1999/21/EC (excluding products from food category 13.1.5) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.3 Dietary foods for weight control diets intended to replace total daily food intake or an individual meal (the whole or part of the total daily diet) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 13.4 Foods suitable for people intolerant to gluten as defined by Commission Regulation (EC) No 41/2009 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. including dry pasta.
  • 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable juices.
  • 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only vegetable nectars, E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.1.4 Flavoured drinks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E 421, E 953, E 965, E 966 and E 967 may not be used E 968 may not be used except where specifically provided for in this food category.
  • 14.1.5.2 Other — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. excluding unflavoured leaf tea; including flavoured instant coffee; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used in drinks.
  • 14.2.3 Cider and perry — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.4 Fruit wine and made wine — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.5 Mead — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.6 Spirit drinks as defined in Regulation (EC) No 110/2008 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except whisky or whiskey; E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used except in liqueurs.
  • 14.2.7.1 Aromatised wines — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.2 Aromatised wine-based drinks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.7.3 Aromatised wine-product cocktails — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 14.2.8 Other alcoholic drinks including mixtures of alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic drinks and spirits with less than 15 % of alcohol — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 420, E421, E 953, E965, E 966, E 967 and E 968 may not be used.
  • 15.1 Potato-, cereal-, flour- or starch-based snacks — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 16 Desserts excluding products covered in categories 1, 3 and 4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 17.1 Food supplements supplied in a solid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415, E 417 and E 425 may not be used to produce dehydrated food supplements intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 17.2 Food supplements supplied in a liquid form, excluding food supplements for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 18 Processed foods not covered by categories 1 to 17, excluding foods for infants and young children — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.1 Fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milkfat) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis. except virgin oils and olive oils.
  • 2.2.2 Other fat and oil emulsions including spreads as defined by Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 and liquid emulsions — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 2.3 Vegetable oil pan spray — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 3 Edible ices — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.1 Dried fruit and vegetables — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion.
  • 4.2.2 Fruit and vegetables in vinegar, oil, or brine — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.4.1 Fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.5.4 Nut butters and nut spreads — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 4.2.6 Processed potato products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only energy-reduced or with no added sugar.
  • 5.2 Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. The substances listed under numbers E 400, E 401, E 402, E 403, E 404, E 406, E 407, 407a, E 410, E 412, E 413, E 414, E 415, E 417, E 418, E 425 and E 440 may not be used in jelly mini-cups, defined, for the purpose of this Regulation, as jelly confectionery of a firm consistence, contained in semi rigid mini-cups or mini-capsules, intended to be ingested in a single bite by exerting pressure on the mini-cups or mini-capsule to project the confectionery into the mouth; E 410, E 412, E 415 E 417 may not be used to produce dehydrated foods intended to rehydrate on ingestion. E425 may not be used in jelly confectionery.
  • 5.3 Chewing gum — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 5.4 Decorations, coatings and fillings, except fruit based fillings covered by category 4.2.4 — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.2.2 Starches — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.3 Breakfast cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.4.2 Dry pasta — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only gluten free and/or pasta intended for hypoproteic diets in accordance with Directive 2009/39/EC.
  • 6.4.4 Potato gnocchi — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.4 Potato gnocchi — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis. only fresh refrigerated potato gnocchi.
  • 6.4.5 Fillings of stuffed pasta (ravioli and similar) — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.5 Noodles — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.6 Batters — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 6.7 Pre-cooked or processed cereals — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 7.1 Bread and rolls — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except products in 7.1.1 and 7.1.2.
  • 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis.
  • 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. quantum satis. only Friss búzakenyér, fehér és félbarna kenyerek.
  • 7.2 Fine bakery wares — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.1 Non-heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 8.3.2 Heat-treated meat products — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. except foie gras, foie gras entier, blocs de foie gras, Libamáj, libamáj egészben, libamáj tömbben.
  • 8.3.3 Casings and coatings and decorations for meat — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.2 Processed fish and fishery products including mollusks and crustaceans — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis.
  • 9.3 Fish roe — quantum satisAuthorised under E 304, Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid. Permitted as a member of Group I. quantum satis. only processed fish roe.
Assimilated Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, Annex II (as at 28 June 2024)and 70 further provisionsretrieved 2026-10-18
JapanConsumer Affairs AgencyPermitted, with conditions
Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 10, Ｌ―アスコルビン酸ステアリン酸エステル（別名ビタミンＣステアレート） (“L-Ascorbic Stearate (Vitamin C Stearate)” in the unofficial English translation). …

Designated additive: Appended Table 1, item 10, Ｌ―アスコルビン酸ステアリン酸エステル（別名ビタミンＣステアレート） (“L-Ascorbic Stearate (Vitamin C Stearate)” in the unofficial English translation). Standards for use — Specifications and Standards for Foods, Food Additives, etc. (MHW Notification No. 370 of 1959), Part II (Food Additives), F (Standards for use): The Notification sets no standard for use (使用基準) for this additive, so it is not restricted there to particular foods or amounts. Compositional specifications for this additive, in the same Notification, are not imported and are not shown here; nor are the general rules in F 添加物一般, which apply to every additive.

Regulations for Enforcement of the Food Sanitation Act (MHW Ordinance No. 23 of 1948), Appended Table 1retrieved 2026-10-18
South KoreaMinistry of Food and Drug SafetyPermitted, with conditions
Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. …

Designated food additive: Standards and Specifications for Food Additives, Part III, 1. 일반식품첨가물 (general food additives), L-아스코빌스테아레이트 (“L-Ascorbyl Stearate”, the English the Code prints beside it); the Code marks it as also usable as a nutrient fortifier; 3. 영양강화제 (nutrient fortifiers), L-아스코빌스테아레이트; nutrient: 비타민C; the Code marks it as also usable as a general food additive. Main use (주용도) of L-아스코빌스테아레이트: 산화방지제. Standard for use (사용기준) of L-아스코빌스테아레이트: (1) [may be used only in the foods listed; sets a limit on the amount used] “L-아스코빌스테아레이트는 아래의 식품에 한하여 사용하여야 한다. L-아스코빌스테아레이트의 사용량은 1. 식용유지류(모조치즈, 식물성크림 제외)：0.5g/kg 이하(아스코빌팔미테이트와 병용할 때에는 L-아스코빌스테아레이트로서 사용량과 아스코빌팔미테이트로서 사용량의 합계가 0.5g/kg 이하) 2. 건강기능식품” Standard for use (사용기준) of L-아스코빌스테아레이트: (1) [follows the standard for use of another entry in the Code] “III. 1. 일반식품첨가물의 L-아스코빌스테아레이트의 사용기준을 따른다.” The Korean is the standard as published. There is no official English translation of the current Code (the English version on MFDS’s website is the 2020 edition and has no legal effect); the English in square brackets is this site’s description of what each sentence does, not a translation of the foods or the levels. Compositional specifications (Part IV) are not imported, nor are the general standards in Part II, which apply to every additive.

Standards and Specifications for Food Additives (식품첨가물의 기준 및 규격), MFDS Notification, Part III (Standards for use, by item)retrieved 2026-10-18
United StatesFood and Drug AdministrationNot listedDoes not appear on this jurisdiction’s permitted list. That is not the same as being prohibited.
Codex AlimentariusCodex Alimentarius Commission / JECFAPermitted, with conditions

46 food categories

highest permitted level 5,000 mg/kg

Show every food category and its notes
  • 01.3.2 Beverage whiteners — 80 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note XS250 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for a Blend of Evaporated Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat (CODEX STAN 250-2006).
    • Note XS252 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for a Blend of Sweetened Condensed Skimmed Milk and Vegetable Fat (CODEX STAN 252-2006).
  • 01.5.1 Milk powder and cream powder (plain) — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 545 Except for use in products conforming to the Standard for Milk Powders and Cream Powder (CXS 207-1999): ascorbic acid, L- (INS 300), ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304), ascorbyl stearate (INS 305) and sodium ascorbate (INS 301), as antioxidants only, singly or in combination at 500 mg/kg, expressed as ascorbic acid.
    • Note XS290 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Standard for Edible Casein Products (CXS 290-1995).
  • 01.5.2 Milk and cream powder analogues — 80 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 01.6.1 Unripened cheese — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note XS221 Excluding products conforming to the Group Standard for Unripened Cheese including Fresh Cheese (CXS 221-2001).
    • Note XS273 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cottage Cheese (CXS 273-1968).
  • 01.6.2.1 Ripened cheese, includes rind — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 112 For use in grated cheese only.
    • Note XS208 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cheese in Brine (CODEX STAN 208-1999).
    • Note XS263 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cheddar (CXS 263-1966).
    • Note XS264 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Danbo (CXS 264-1966).
    • Note XS265 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Edam (CXS 265-1966).
    • Note XS266 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Gouda (CXS 266-1966).
    • Note XS267 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Havarti (CXS 267-1966).
    • Note XS268 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Samsø (CXS 268-1966).
    • Note XS269 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Emmental (CXS 269-1967).
    • Note XS270 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Tilsiter (CXS 270-1968).
    • Note XS271 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Saint-Paulin (CXS 271-1968).
    • Note XS272 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Provolone (CXS 272-1968).
    • Note XS274 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Coulommiers (CXS 274-1969).
    • Note XS276 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Camembert (CXS 276-1973).
    • Note XS277 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Brie (CXS 277-1973).
    • Note XS278 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Extra Hard Grating Cheese (CXS 278-1978).
    • Note XS283 Excluding products conforming to the General Standard for Cheese (CXS 283-1978).
  • 01.7 Dairy-based desserts (e.g. pudding, fruit or flavoured yoghurt) — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 2 On the dry ingredient, dry weight, dry mix or concentrate basis.
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note XS243 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Fermented Milks (CXS 243-2003).
  • 02.1.1 Butter oil, anhydrous milkfat, ghee — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 171 Excluding anhydrous milkfat.
  • 02.1.2 Vegetable oils and fats — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 511 Excluding virgin and cold pressed oils in products conforming to the Standard for Edible Fats and Oils not Covered by Individual Standards (CXS 19-1981) and the Standard for Named Vegetable Oils (CXS 210-1999).
    • Note XS33 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Olive Oils and Olive Pomace Oils (CODEX STAN 33-1981).
    • Note XS325R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for Unrefined Shea Butter (CXS 325R-2017).
  • 02.1.3 Lard, tallow, fish oil, and other animal fats — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 526 Except for use in products conforming to the Standards for Fish Oils (CXS 329-2017) at 2500 mg/kg.
  • 02.2.2 Fat spreads, dairy fat spreads and blended spreads — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 02.3 Fat emulsions mainly of type oil-in-water, including mixed and/or flavoured products based on fat emulsions — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 02.4 Fat-based desserts excluding dairy-based dessert products of food category 01.7 — 80 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 03.0 Edible ices, including sherbet and sorbet — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
  • 04.1.2.2 Dried fruit — 80 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 04.1.2.9 Fruit-based desserts, incl. fruit-flavoured water-based desserts — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 2 On the dry ingredient, dry weight, dry mix or concentrate basis.
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 04.2.2.2 Dried vegetables (including mushrooms and fungi, roots and tubers, pulses and legumes, and aloe vera), seaweeds, and nuts and seeds — 80 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 613 Except for products conforming to the Regional Standard for Laver Products (CXS 323R-2017), only for use in Seasoned Laver Products.
    • Note XS336R Excluding products conforming to the Regional Standard for kava products for use as a beverage when mixed with water (North America and South West Pacific) (CXS 336R-2020).
  • 05.0 Confectionery — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 375 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Chocolate and Chocolate Products (CODEX STAN 87-1981) except for white chocolate, where ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304) may be used only as an antioxidant at 200 mg/kg calculated on a fat content basis.
    • Note XS86 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cocoa Butter (CODEX STAN 86-1981).
    • Note XS105 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cocoa Powders (Cocoas) and Dry Mixtures of Cocoa and Sugars (CODEX STAN 105-1981).
    • Note XS141 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cocoa (Cacao) Mass (Cocoa/chocolate liquor) and Cocoa Cake (CODEX STAN 141-1983).
    • Note XS309R Excluding products conforming to the Codex Regional Standard for Halawa Tehenia (CODEX STAN 309R-211).
  • 06.3 Breakfast cereals, including rolled oats — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 06.4.3 Pre-cooked pastas and noodles and like products — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 211 For use in noodles only.
    • Note XS364R Excluding use in products conforming to the Regional standard for quick-frozen dumplings (CXS 364R-2026).
  • 06.5 Cereal and starch based desserts (e.g. rice pudding, tapioca pudding) — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 2 On the dry ingredient, dry weight, dry mix or concentrate basis.
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 06.8.1 Soybean-based beverages — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 187 Ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304) only.
    • Note 643 For use only in composite/ flavoured soybean beverages and soybean-based beverages conforming to the Regional Standard for Non-Fermented Soybean Products (Asia) (CXS 322R-2015).
  • 07.0 Bakery wares — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
  • 08.4 Edible casings (e.g. sausage casings) — 5,000 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 09.2.1 Frozen fish, fish fillets, and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 392 For non-standardized food and for products conforming to the Standard for Live and Raw Bivalve Molluscs (CODEX STAN 292-2008): for use as an antioxidant for raw frozen molluscs.
    • Note XS36 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Finfish, Uneviscerated and Eviscerated (CODEX STAN 36-1981).
    • Note XS92 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Shrimps and Prawns (CODEX STAN 92-1981).
    • Note XS95 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Lobsters (CODEX STAN 95-1981).
    • Note XS190 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Fish Fillets (CODEX STAN 190-1995).
    • Note XS191 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Quick Frozen Raw Squid (CODEX STAN 191-1995).
    • Note XS312 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Live Abalone and for Raw Fresh Chilled or Frozen Abalone for Direct Consumption or for Further Processing (CODEX STAN 312-2013).
    • Note XS315 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Fresh and Quick Frozen Raw Scallop Products (CODEX STAN 315-2014).
  • 09.2.2 Frozen battered fish, fish fillets and fish products, including molluscs, crustaceans, and echinoderms — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 10.4 Egg-based desserts (e.g. custard) — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 2 On the dry ingredient, dry weight, dry mix or concentrate basis.
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 11.4 Other sugars and syrups (e.g. xylose, maple syrup, sugar toppings) — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 12.2 Herbs, spices, seasonings, and condiments (e.g. seasoning for instant noodles) — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note XS326 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Black, White and Green Peppers (CODEX STAN 326-2017).
    • Note XS327 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Cumin (CODEX STAN 327-2017).
    • Note XS328 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Thyme (CODEX STAN 328-2017).
    • Note XS342 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Oregano (CXS 342-2021).
    • Note XS343 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for dried roots, rhizomes and bulbs: Dried or dehydrated ginger (CXS 343-2021).
    • Note XS344 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for dried floral parts: Cloves (CXS 344-2021).
    • Note XS345 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Basil (CXS 345-2021).
    • Note XS347 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for dried or dehydrated garlic (CXS 347-2019).
    • Note XS351 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Floral Parts - Saffron (CXS 351-2022).
    • Note XS352 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried Seeds – Nutmeg (CXS 352-2022).
    • Note XS353 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Dried or Dehydrated Chilli Pepper and Paprika (CXS 353-2022).
  • 12.4 Mustards — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 12.5 Soups and broths — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 12.6.1 Emulsified sauces and dips (e.g. mayonnaise, salad dressing, onion dips) — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
  • 12.6.2 Non-emulsified sauces (e.g. ketchup, cheese sauce, cream sauce, brown gravy) — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note XS306 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Chilli Sauce (CXS 306-2011).
  • 12.6.3 Mixes for sauces and gravies — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 12.6.4 Clear sauces (e.g. fish sauce) — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note XS302 Excluding products conforming to the Standard for Fish Sauce (CODEX STAN 302-2011).
  • 12.7 Salads (e.g. macaroni salad, potato salad) and sandwich spreads excluding cocoa-and nut-based spreads of food categories 04.2.2.5 and 05.1.3 — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 13.1.1 Infant formulae — 10 mg/kg
    • Note 187 Ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304) only.
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.1.2 Follow-up formulae — 50 mg/kg
    • Note 187 Ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304) only.
    • Note 315 Singly or in combination: ascorbic acid (INS 300), sodium ascorbate (INS 301), calcium ascorbate (INS 302), and ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304).
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.1.3 Formulae for special medical purposes for infants — 10 mg/kg
    • Note 187 Ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304) only.
    • Note 551 Maximum use level is expressed as mg additive/L of food.
  • 13.2 Complementary foods for infants and young children — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
    • Note 187 Ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304) only.
  • 13.3 Dietetic foods intended for special medical purposes (excluding products of food category 13.1) — 10 mg/kg
    • Note 187 Ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304) only.
    • Note 560 For use in products conforming to the Guidelines for Ready to Use Therapeutic Foods (CXG 95-2022).
  • 13.4 Dietetic formulae for slimming purposes and weight reduction — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 13.5 Dietetic foods (e.g. supplementary foods for dietary use) excluding products of food categories — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 13.6 Food supplements — 500 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 14.1.4 Water-based flavoured drinks, including "sport," “energy,” or "electrolyte" drinks and particulated drinks — 1,000 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
    • Note 15 On the fat or oil basis.
  • 15.1 Snacks - potato, cereal, flour or starch based (from roots and tubers, pulses and legumes) — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
  • 15.2 Processed nuts, including coated nuts and nut mixtures (with e.g. dried fruit) — 200 mg/kg
    • Note 10 As ascorbyl stearate.
CXS 192-1995 Table One, INS 305and 45 further provisionsretrieved 2026-09-07

How much is permitted

A listing usually limits the quantity as well as the food. Only one of the forms that takes is a figure: quantum satis and good manufacturing practice permit the amount the technological effect requires and no more, which is a limit rather than the absence of one. Figures below are the range across every food category this page is listed in, and categories differ between regulators — see how much is permitted.

Canada—1 GMP, 1 no quantity stated
European Union—46 several limits, 5 quantum satis, 22 no quantity stated
Great Britain—71 quantum satis
Japan—1 no quantity stated
South Korea—1 no quantity stated
Codex Alimentarius10 mg/kg – 5,000 mg/kg46 numeric limit

What FDA’s inventory records

This page holds no listing for Ascorbyl stearate in the parts of 21 CFR this site reads. FDA’s Substances Added to Food inventory does carry it, as ASCORBYL STEARATE, pointing at a standard of identity for a particular food: 21 CFR 166.110.

Technical effects FDA records: antioxidant.

The inventory is an information resource: a row means FDA holds information about the substance’s use in food, not that the substance is listed for that use. It is shown apart from the permissions above and is not counted as a US permission anywhere on this site.

What it is made from

Made by esterifying ascorbic acid with stearic acid. Stearic acid is obtained from either vegetable or animal fats, and JECFA's specification does not say which, so the origin of a particular batch is a question for its manufacturer.

CAS registry number
25395-66-8
InChIKey
LITUBCVUXPBCGA-WMZHIEFXSA-N
PubChem
CID 54725318

The two specifications, compared

The European Union sets identity and purity by regulation; JECFA publishes its own through FAO, advisory until a country adopts it. Both documents are below in full. These are the parameters each puts a number on.

ParameterEuropean UnionJECFA
Assayno less than 98 %no less than 95 %
Loss on dryingno more than 2 %no more than 2 %
Sulphated ashno more than 0.1 %no more than 0.1 %
Leadno more than 2 mg/kgno more than 2 mg/kg
Arsenicno more than 3 mg/kg—
Mercuryno more than 1 mg/kg—

One parameter differs between the two documents. A difference is not a disagreement about safety: the two are revised on their own cycles, and an assay or a drying loss can be measured against a different preparation of the substance, which is why only the contaminant ceilings are marked. Within the EU the EU's figure is the one that binds.

How the EU defines it

The legal specification an additive must meet to be sold as this E number in the EU — what it is, how it may be made, and the purity it must reach. From Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.

E 304(ii) Ascorbyl stearate

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Einecs
246-944-9
Chemical name
Ascorbyl stearate; L-ascorbyl stearate; 2,3-didehydro-L-threo-hexono-1,4-lactone-6-stearate; 6-stearoyl-3-keto-L-gulofuranolactone
Chemical formula
C₂₄H₄₂O₇
Molecular weight
442,6
Assay
Content not less than 98 %
Description
White or yellowish, white powder with a citrus-like odour

Identification

Melting point
About 116 °C

Purity criteria

Loss on drying
Not more than 2,0 % (vacuum oven, 56-60 °C, 1 hour)
Sulphated ash
Not more than 0,1 %
Arsenic
Not more than 3 mg/kg
Lead
Not more than 2 mg/kg
Mercury
Not more than 1 mg/kg

Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012, Annex, E 304(ii)

How JECFA defines it

The international specification for identity and purity, prepared by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives and published by FAO. It is a different document from any above, written by a different body and revised on its own cycle; it is advisory, and a country adopts it or does not.

INS 305 Ascorbyl Stearate

Synonyms: Vitamin C stearate; INS No. 305

Assay, identification and purity criteria

Description and assay

Specification history
Prepared at the 17th JECFA (1973), published in FNP 4 (1978) and in FNP 52 (1992). Metals and arsenic specifications revised at the 61st JECFA (2003) An ADI of 0-1.25 mg/kg bw was established at the 17th JECFA (1973)
Chemical names
Ascorbyl stearate, L-ascorbyl stearate, 2,3-didehydro-L-threo-hexono-1,4-lactone-6-stearate; 6-stearoyl-3-keto-L-gulofuranolactone
C.A.S. number
25395-66-8
Chemical formula
C 24 H 42 O 7
Formula weight
442.6
Assay
Not less than 95%
DESCRIPTION
White or yellowish-white solid, with a citrus-like odour
FUNCTIONAL USES
Antioxidant
METHOD OF ASSAY
Add 0.800 g of the sample to a mixture of 50 ml of carbon dioxide-free water, 50 ml of chloroform and 25 ml of dilute sulfuric acid TS. Titrate the mixture at once with 0.1 N iodine, making sure that the mixture is well shaken. Add a few drops of starch TS as indicator as the end point is approached. Each ml of 0.1 N iodine is equivalent to 22.13 mg of C 24 H 42 O 7

Identification

Solubility (Vol. 4)
Insoluble in water; soluble in ethanol
Melting point (Vol. 4)
About 116 o
Reducing reaction
A solution of the sample in ethanol will decolourize a solution of 2,6-dichlorophenol-indophenol TS (see Volume 4)

Purity criteria

Loss on drying (Vol. 4)
Not more than 2% (vacuum oven, 56 - 60 o , 1 h)
Sulfated ash (Vol. 4)
Not more than 0.1%
Lead (Vol. 4)
Not more than 2 mg/kg Determine using an atomic absorption technique appropriate to the specified level. The selection of sample size and method of sample preparation may be based on the principles of the method described in Volume 4, “Instrumental Methods.”

FAO JECFA Monograph 1 (2006)

Every name it appears under

32 recorded names. A label may use any of them.

E number

  • E304
  • E305

INS number

  • 305

CAS registry number

  • 10605-09-1
  • 25395-66-8

As it appears in regulation

  • Fatty acid esters of ascorbic acid

Other names

  • (S)-2-((R)-3,4-dihydroxy-5-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-yl)-2-hydroxyethyl stearate
  • 2-(3,4-dihydroxy-5-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-yl)-2-hydroxyethyl octadecanoate
  • 6-(Stearoyloxy)-L-ascorbic acid
  • 6-Ascorby
  • 6-Ascorbyl stearate
  • 6-O-Stearoyl-L-ascorbic Acid
  • [(2S)-2-[(2R)-3,4-dihydroxy-5-oxo-2H-furan-2-yl]-2-hydroxy-ethyl] octadecanoate
  • [(2S)-2-[(2R)-3,4-dihydroxy-5-oxo-2H-furan-2-yl]-2-hydroxyethyl] octadecanoate
  • Ascorbyl stearate
  • ASCORBYL STEARATE (USP-RS)
  • INS NO.305
  • INS-305
  • L-Ascorbic acid 6-stearate
  • L-Ascorbic acid 6-stearate, analytical reference material
  • L-Ascorbic acid monostearate
  • L-Ascorbic acid, 6-octadecanoate
  • L-Ascorbic acid, 6-octadecanoate (9CI)
  • L-Ascorbicacid6-stearate
  • L-ASCORBYL 6-OCTADECANOATE
  • L-Ascorbyl 6-Stearate
  • L-Ascorbyl-6-stearate
  • L-Stearoyl-6-ascorbic Acid
  • LITUBCVUXPBCGA-WMZHIEFXSA-N
  • STEARIC ACID, 6-ESTER WITH L-ASCORBIC ACID
  • Vitamin C stearate

Systematic names

  • (2S)-2-[(2R)-3,4-dihydroxy-5-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-yl]-2-hydroxyethyl octadecanoate

Hazard reference values

No reference value for this substance in the sources we hold.

Evidence and how bodies read it

Studies, and the differing conclusions regulators drew from them, are curated rather than machine-read, and none has been written for this substance yet.

Common questions

Assembled from what is above, in the words the questions are usually asked in. Each answer is the same statement the relevant section makes, with the same citations behind it.

What is E 304(ii)?
E 304(ii) is Ascorbyl stearate. Ascorbyl stearate is the stearic acid ester of ascorbic acid, used as an antioxidant in fats and oils. Attaching a long fatty acid makes it soluble in fat, where ascorbic acid on its own is not.
What is Ascorbyl stearate used for in food?
It is listed as an antioxidant — the role Codex and the US assign it. This page shows every function each regulator records, with the citation for each.
Where is Ascorbyl stearate permitted?
Of the seven regulators this site reads, Canada, the EU, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea and the Codex standard permit it. Each permission is for named foods at named levels, not a blanket one; the table on this page gives them with citations.

Sources for this page

  • ca retrieved 2026-10-17
  • eu retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gb retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jp retrieved 2026-10-18
  • kr retrieved 2026-10-18
  • gsfa retrieved 2026-09-07
  • euspecs retrieved 2026-10-18
  • jecfaspecs retrieved 2026-09-23

Full licence terms and publisher details on Sources. How this page is built and updated: Method.

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