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The facts: Ascorbic Acid is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Ascorbic Acid on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Tropicana Orange Juice, Arnold Bread, Oscar Mayer Bologna.
TL;DR: Ascorbic Acid is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Tropicana Orange Juice, Arnold Bread, Oscar Mayer Bologna, Kellogg's Corn Flakes, Various multivitamins |
Ascorbic acid is the chemical name for vitamin C, an essential water-soluble vitamin found abundantly in fruits and vegetables. As a food additive (E300), it functions as an antioxidant preservative, preventing oxidative browning and rancidity. Commercial ascorbic acid is produced by fermentation of glucose, most commonly from corn.
Prevents oxidative browning in cut fruits and vegetables, protects fats from rancidity, and is added as a nutritional supplement; also used as a dough improver in bread.
Generally recognized as safe. Note: when ascorbic acid is combined with sodium benzoate or benzoic acid in acidic beverages, benzene can form — a Class 1 carcinogen. This combination should be avoided in formulations. As a standalone additive, ascorbic acid is not only safe but nutritionally beneficial. Very high supplemental doses (>2 g/day) can cause diarrhea and kidney stone risk in predisposed individuals.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Ascorbic Acid with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Ascorbic Acid is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
Commonly found in Tropicana Orange Juice, Arnold Bread, Oscar Mayer Bologna, Kellogg's Corn Flakes, Various multivitamins. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Ascorbic Acid.
Rosemary extract and natural vitamin E (tocopherols) provide antioxidant preservation in fats and oils. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
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