Calcium Ascorbate
The short version
The calcium salt of vitamin C — combines antioxidant and calcium-fortification roles.
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Where it comes from
Produced by neutralizing ascorbic acid with calcium carbonate. Provides one molecule of calcium per two ascorbate ions — a convenient way to deliver vitamin C and a modest calcium contribution in the same ingredient.
How it's used
Used in fortified juices, supplements, infant formula, and combined calcium-vitamin chewable tablets. Provides the neutral-pH antioxidant function of sodium ascorbate while contributing dietary calcium. Slightly bitter calcium taste in higher doses.
Safety profile
ADI not specified — well-tolerated. Each gram of calcium ascorbate contains about 100 mg of calcium and 800 mg of ascorbate. Excess vitamin C is excreted; excess calcium intake is mainly a concern from supplements rather than food-level fortification.
Physical & chemical properties
White to slightly yellow crystalline powder. Very soluble in water. Less acidic than ascorbic acid (pH 6.8–7.4 in solution). Light-sensitive in solution.
Regulation worldwide
Permitted globally without restrictive limits.
Educational information only. Not medical or dietary advice.