Other names for the additive (synonyms)
General Information
The food additive E304(ii) is known as ascorbyl stearate and belongs to the group of food additives E304, which includes esters of fatty acids of ascorbic acid.
In Codex Alimentarius: CXG 36-1989, ascorbyl stearate has a separate INS code 305, while ascorbyl palmitate (additive E304(ii)) is classified under INS code 304, reflecting their distinction as different esters of ascorbic acid.
At the same time, in European legislation, in particular in Regulation (EC) No 231/2012 and Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, both substances are combined into a single group of food additives under the common code E304.
Ascorbyl stearate is used in the food industry primarily as an antioxidant. Its main function is to protect fats and fat-containing components from oxidation, which helps slow down product spoilage, preserve taste, aroma, and color, and extend shelf life.
In its finished form, ascorbyl stearate does not occur naturally and is therefore classified as a substance of synthetic origin. At the same time, it is produced from components of natural origin — ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and stearic acid, which is a common fatty acid found in animal fats and vegetable oils.
Ascorbyl stearate was developed as a fat-soluble form of vitamin C for technological systems in which water-soluble antioxidants are ineffective or unstable.
The chemical formula of ascorbyl stearate is C₂₄H₄₂O₇. It is a powdery substance of white or creamy color, readily soluble in fats and practically insoluble in water. Additive E304(ii) is characterized by high stability in lipid matrices and resistance to moderate heating, which makes it suitable for products containing solid fats.
For the food industry, ascorbyl stearate is obtained by chemical esterification of ascorbic acid with stearic acid in the presence of catalysts, followed by purification and standardization of the product.
Effects on the Body
Benefit of Additive E304(ii)
After ingestion, ascorbyl stearate is rapidly hydrolyzed into ascorbic acid and stearic acid. Both compounds are physiologically familiar to the human body and participate in normal metabolic processes.
According to assessments by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the use of esters of fatty acids of ascorbic acid, including ascorbyl stearate, does not raise safety concerns when used within permitted technological levels.
According to data from the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA), ascorbyl stearate has an extremely low level of systemic exposure. In this regard, it has been assigned an ADI status of “not specified,” meaning that there is no need for a numerical limit on daily intake.
Due to its pronounced lipophilicity, additive E304(ii) effectively protects fat components of foods and cell membranes from damage by free radicals. This helps preserve food quality and indirectly supports the antioxidant balance of the body.
Risks of Additive E304(ii)
According to available toxicological data, ascorbyl stearate does not exhibit mutagenic, carcinogenic, or teratogenic properties. Side effects when consumed within typical dietary levels have not been described.
Theoretically, excessive consumption may cause minor digestive disturbances or individual reactions related to the metabolism of ascorbic acid. However, such cases are rare and not characteristic of a normal diet.
Uses
Food additive E304(ii) is used as an antioxidant in products with a high fat content, especially those containing solid or semi-solid fat phases.
Ascorbyl stearate is added to margarines, cooking fats, confectionery products, chocolate, fillings, dry mixes, and long-shelf-life products. Due to its increased hydrophobicity, it is effective in systems requiring stability under heating or prolonged storage.
Compared to ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate is more often used in products with a denser fat structure, while ascorbyl palmitate is better suited for liquid oils and emulsions.
In addition to the food industry, ascorbyl stearate is used in pharmaceutical preparations and dietary supplements as a stable fat-soluble form of vitamin C, as well as in cosmetic products to enhance the antioxidant stability of formulations.
Legal Status
Food additive E304(ii) is permitted for use in most countries worldwide.
According to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, ascorbyl stearate is included in the list of permitted antioxidants as a subtype of additive E304 and may be used under the “quantum satis” principle, meaning without a specified maximum level provided that good manufacturing practice is observed.
In Ukraine, additive E304(ii) is permitted for use in accordance with national legislation harmonized with the requirements of the European Union.
In the United States, ascorbyl stearate is recognized by the FDA as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) for food use.