Sodium Ascorbate

Synonyms: L-Ascorbic acid monosodium salt; E301; 3-oxo-L-gulofuranolactone sodium enolate; natrii ascorbas; SA-99; vitamin C sodium

Description: Sodium ascorbate occurs as a white or slightly yellow-colored, practically odorless, crystalline powder with a pleasant saline taste.

Chemical Name: Monosodium L-(þ)-ascorbate

Antioxidant; therapeutic agent.

• Sodium ascorbate is used as an antioxidant in pharmaceutical formulations, and also in food products where it increases the effectiveness of sodium nitrite against growth of Listeria monocytogenes in cooked meats.

• It improves gel cohesiveness and sensory firmness of fiberized products regardless of vacuum treatment.

• It is also used therapeutically as a source of vitamin C in tablets and parenteral preparations.

Incompatible with oxidizing agents, heavy metal ions, especially copper and iron, methenamine, sodium nitrite, sodium salicylate, and theobromine salicylate. The aqueous solution is reported to be incompatible with stainless steel filters.

The parenteral administration of 0.251.00 g of sodium ascorbate, given daily in divided doses, is recommended in the treatment of vitamin C deficiencies. Various adverse reactions have been reported following the administration of 1 g or more of sodium ascorbate, although ascorbic acid and sodium ascorbate are usually well tolerated; see Ascorbic acid. There have been no reports of adverse effects associated with the much lower concentrations of sodium ascorbate and ascorbic acid, which are employed as antioxidants

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material handled. Sodium ascorbate may be irritant to the eyes. Eye protection and rubber or plastic gloves are recommended.

Ascorbic acid; ascorbyl palmitate; calcium ascorbate.