Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) CAS 50-81-7

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) – Essential Water-Soluble Antioxidant

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 50-81-7

• Molecular Formula: C₆H₈O₆

• Molecular Weight: 176.12 g/mol

• Synonyms: L-Ascorbic acid, Vitamin C

• Appearance: White to slightly yellowish crystalline powder

• Odor: Odorless or faint

• Density: ~1.65 g/cm³

• Melting Point: ~190–192°C (decomposes)

• Solubility: Freely soluble in water (~33 g/100 mL at 25°C), moderately soluble in ethanol

• Stability: Sensitive to oxygen, light, and metal ions; oxidizes readily, especially in alkaline conditions; stable at pH < 4.

Overview
Ascorbic acid, commonly known as Vitamin C, is a naturally occurring water-soluble vitamin essential for human health. Unlike most animals, humans cannot synthesize Vitamin C endogenously and must obtain it through diet or supplements. It acts as a powerful antioxidant and a cofactor for several enzymatic reactions, playing a critical role in collagen synthesis, immune function, and protection against oxidative stress.

Applications

• Food industry: Used as an antioxidant (E300) to prevent oxidation in foods and beverages; added as a nutrient fortifier in juices, cereals, and other products.

• Pharmaceuticals: Formulated in vitamin supplements, immune-support products, and treatments for scurvy and other Vitamin C deficiencies.

• Cosmetics: Incorporated into anti-aging serums, brightening creams, and sunscreens for its antioxidant and collagen-boosting properties.

• Other uses: As a reducing agent in photography, a preservative in personal care products, and a reagent in chemical synthesis.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) at recommended dietary intakes (60–100 mg/day for adults).

• High doses (>2 g/day) may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, diarrhea, and in rare cases, kidney stones.

• Store in airtight containers, protected from light, moisture, and heat to prevent degradation.

• Avoid contact with strong oxidizing agents and metal salts (e.g., iron, copper) which catalyze oxidation.

Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg, and 50 kg containers (bags, drums, or boxes). Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by HPLC), water content, and heavy metals to ensure compliance with food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic standards.