Generally halal
- Usually made from
- Synthetic
- Used as
- antioxidant, flour treatment agent
- Vegan
- Yes
What is E300?
Ascorbic acid is vitamin C. Industry makes it from glucose, usually from maize or wheat starch, through a combination of fermentation and chemical steps. In foods it stops browning and fat spoilage, and in bread flour it strengthens the dough.
Why it's marked “Generally halal”
It is produced from plant glucose using microbes and chemical steps, with no animal ingredient and no alcohol in the final product. Vitamin C made this way is the same molecule as the vitamin C in fruit, and it is generally treated as halal.
How to check the label
No special check is needed. It may appear as ascorbic acid, vitamin C, “antioxidant: ascorbic acid” or “flour treatment agent: ascorbic acid”.
Where you'll find it
- fruit juices
- cured meats
- bread
- canned fruit
- soft drinks
Good to know
- EFSA's 2015 re-evaluation found no safety concern and no need for a numerical ADI for ascorbic acid and its sodium and calcium salts.
- Its salts, sodium ascorbate (E301) and calcium ascorbate (E302), are used in the same way.
Similar additives
See all 89 E-numbers in the halal checker
This list describes where additives usually come from. It isn't a religious ruling, and manufacturers can change their sources. Last reviewed: 14 October 2026.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Is E300 halal?
Generally halal. It is produced from plant glucose using microbes and chemical steps, with no animal ingredient and no alcohol in the final product. Vitamin C made this way is the same molecule as the vitamin C in fruit, and it is generally treated as halal.
What is E300 made from?
Ascorbic acid is vitamin C. Industry makes it from glucose, usually from maize or wheat starch, through a combination of fermentation and chemical steps. In foods it stops browning and fat spoilage, and in bread flour it strengthens the dough.
Is E300 vegan?
Yes. E300 isn't made from animal sources.