E302 Ascorbyl Palmitate – Food Additive
E302 is the EU food additive ascorbyl palmitate, a fat-soluble antioxidant derived from vitamin C that protects foods from oxidation and rancidity.
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E302 is the EU food additive ascorbyl palmitate, a fat-soluble antioxidant derived from vitamin C that protects foods from oxidation and rancidity.
What is E302?
E302 is the designation for the food additive ascorbyl palmitate, a synthetically produced ester of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and the fatty acid palmitic acid. Unlike water-soluble ascorbic acid (E300), ascorbyl palmitate is fat-soluble, making it particularly suitable for protecting fat-containing foods from oxidative spoilage.
Properties and Common Uses
E302 appears as a white to yellowish powder with no characteristic taste or odour. It is produced industrially through the esterification of vitamin C with palmitic acid. In the food industry, it is commonly used in:
- Vegetable oils and cooking fats
- Margarine and butter
- Baked goods and biscuits
- Infant formula and dietary supplements
- Cosmetic products (outside of food regulation)
Mechanism of Action
As an antioxidant, E302 prevents the oxidation of fats and fat-soluble vitamins. It donates electrons to neutralise free radicals, which are responsible for the oxidative breakdown of food. This extends the shelf life of products and helps preserve their taste, colour, and nutritional value.
Regulatory Approval
E302 is authorised in the European Union under Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives. Permitted maximum levels vary depending on the food category. The additive is considered technologically necessary and safe when used within the prescribed limits.
Safety and Health Assessment
Both the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have assessed E302 as safe. In the human body, it is metabolised into ascorbic acid and palmitic acid, both of which are naturally occurring substances. No adverse health effects are expected at typical dietary intake levels.
At very high doses, far exceeding normal dietary exposure, some effects on the liver were observed in animal studies. These findings are not considered relevant for humans under normal conditions of use.
Comparison with Other Vitamin C Esters
E302 (ascorbyl palmitate) belongs to the group of ascorbic acid esters, which also includes E304 (ascorbyl stearate). Both are fat-soluble and differ from water-soluble ascorbic acid (E300) and its salts (E301 sodium ascorbate, E303 potassium ascorbate) in their suitability for fat-based food systems.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of ascorbyl palmitate (E 304 i) and ascorbyl stearate (E 304 ii) as food additives. EFSA Journal, 2016.
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council on food additives.
- WHO / FAO: JECFA Monographs on Ascorbyl Palmitate. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives.
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