International Numbering System (INS) for Food Additives 315
Food additives Europe numbers: E315
Functional Category
Antioxidant
Applications in Pharmaceutical Formulation
Erythorbic acid is a stereoisomer of L-ascorbic acid, and is used as an antioxidant in foods and oral pharmaceutical formulations. It has approximately 5% of the vitamin C activity of L-ascorbic acid.
Description
Erythorbic acid occurs as a white or slightly yellow-colored crystals or powder. It gradually darkens in color upon exposure to light
Stability and Storage Conditions
Erythorbic acid should be stored in an airtight container, protected from light, in a cool, dry place.
Incompatibilities
Erythorbic acid is incompatible with chemically active metals such as aluminum, copper, magnesium, and zinc. It is also incompatible with strong bases and strong oxidizing agents.
Safety
Erythorbic acid is widely used in food applications as an antioxidant. It is also used in oral pharmaceutical applications as an antioxidant. Erythorbic acid is generally regarded as nontoxic and nonirritant when used as an excipient. Erythorbic acid is readily metabolized and does not affect the urinary excretion of ascorbic acid. The WHO has set an acceptable daily intake of erythorbic acid and its sodium salt in foods at up to 5 mg/kg body-weight.(1)