E318 – Ascorbyl Stearate: Antioxidant Food Additive
E318 is the EU code for ascorbyl stearate, a fat-soluble antioxidant derived from vitamin C and stearic acid, used to protect foods from oxidation and rancidity.
Things worth knowing about "E318"
E318 is the EU code for ascorbyl stearate, a fat-soluble antioxidant derived from vitamin C and stearic acid, used to protect foods from oxidation and rancidity.
What is E318?
E318 is the European Union food additive code for ascorbyl stearate (also known as L-ascorbyl stearate), an approved antioxidant. It is an ester formed by combining ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid. Unlike pure ascorbic acid, which is water-soluble, ascorbyl stearate is fat-soluble, making it particularly effective for protecting lipid-rich foods and oils from oxidative deterioration.
Origin and Production
Ascorbyl stearate is produced synthetically through the esterification of L-ascorbic acid with stearic acid. The source materials can be of either plant or animal origin. The resulting compound is a white to off-white powder that dissolves readily in fats and oils but has very limited solubility in water.
Function and Mechanism of Action
E318 functions as a free radical scavenger: it neutralises reactive oxygen species that form during the oxidation of fats and oils in food products. This process delays rancidity and extends the shelf life of fat-containing foods. In addition, ascorbyl stearate helps protect sensitive fat-soluble ingredients such as vitamins A and E, as well as natural pigments, from oxidative degradation.
Applications in Food
E318 is used in a wide range of food products, including:
- Vegetable and animal edible fats and oils
- Margarines and fat spreads
- Frying and baking oils
- Nuts, snacks, and crackers
- Food supplements containing fat-soluble active ingredients
- Cosmetic products (outside the scope of food law)
The maximum permitted levels of E318 in food are regulated by EU Food Additives Regulation (EC) No. 1333/2008 and vary depending on the food category.
Safety and Health Assessment
Based on current scientific evaluation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), E318 is considered safe when used within permitted levels. In the body, ascorbyl stearate is partially hydrolysed into ascorbic acid and stearic acid, both of which are naturally processed by human metabolism.
An ADI value (Acceptable Daily Intake) has been established by EFSA for the group of ascorbyl esters, which includes E315, E316, E317, and E318 collectively. No adverse health effects are known at typical dietary exposure levels. Individuals who are sensitive to vitamin C derivatives should seek medical advice if in doubt.
Labelling
Foods containing E318 must declare this additive in the ingredients list either by its E-number (E318) or by its chemical name ascorbyl stearate. This requirement enables consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.
References
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Re-evaluation of ascorbyl palmitate (E 304i) and ascorbyl stearate (E 304ii) as food additives. EFSA Journal, 2016.
- European Parliament and Council of the EU: Regulation (EC) No. 1333/2008 on food additives. Official Journal of the European Union, 2008.
- Fennema, O.R. (ed.): Food Chemistry. 3rd edition. Marcel Dekker, New York, 1996.
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