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E304AntioxidantLow concern
Ascorbyl Palmitate
In plain words
The short version
A fat-soluble ester of vitamin C — used to protect oils, fats, and infant formula from oxidation.
Why it's green
It's widely considered safe at the amounts used in food, so we mark it green. The Safety section below has the details.
Safety profile
In 2025 JECFA withdrew its earlier ADI of 0–1.25 mg/kg body weight and set a group ADI "not specified" for ascorbyl palmitate and ascorbyl stearate. EFSA (2015) found the toxicological data too limited to establish an ADI. Considered safe at typical use levels. Hydrolyzes in the body to vitamin C and palmitic acid, both normal nutritional components.
The detail
An ester of L-ascorbic acid and palmitic acid, produced by enzymatic or chemical esterification. Developed in the mid-20th century to give vitamin C activity in fat-rich foods where water-soluble ascorbate cannot reach the lipid phase.
Used in infant formula, vegetable oils, snack foods, and supplements where fat-soluble antioxidant activity is wanted. Often combined with tocopherol for synergistic effect. Used in cosmetics for skin penetration.
White to slightly yellow crystalline powder, soluble in fats and oils, sparingly soluble in water. Stable to heat and light in dry form; same redox chemistry as ascorbate in solution.
Permitted globally for food use. Standard ingredient in infant formula formulations.
Sources
- JECFA database — Ascorbyl palmitate (INS 304), evaluation 2025 (100th meeting) — WHO / Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, 2025. Safety: 0–1.25 mg/kg ADI withdrawn; group ADI 'not specified'; pre-systemic hydrolysis
- EFSA FAF Panel — Re-evaluation of ascorbyl palmitate (E 304i) in foods for infants below 16 weeks of age and follow-up of its re-evaluation (2020), EFSA Journal 18(6):6153 — European Food Safety Authority, 2020. Safety in infant formula; EFSA 2015 found data too limited for an ADI
- 21 CFR 182.3149 — Ascorbyl palmitate (GRAS), CFR 2025 edition — U.S. Government Publishing Office (govinfo) / FDA, 2025. US GRAS status
Checked against these sources on .
Educational information only. Not medical, dietary or veterinary advice. Spotted an error? Tell us.