What is E304?
E304 is Ascorbyl Palmitate — vitamin C combined with palmitic acid, which can come from palm oil or animal fat, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
What is E304 (Ascorbyl Palmitate)?
E304 is the E-number for ascorbyl palmitate, one of the antioxidants group of food additives (E300–E399). Additives in this group stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour. Vitamin C combined with palmitic acid, which can come from palm oil or animal fat. Like every E-number, E304 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E304 in detail below.
Where is E304 found?
E304 is typically used in oils, margarine, snacks, cured meats, soft drinks and processed foods. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E304) or by its full name, ascorbyl palmitate. Common foods that may contain E304 include:
- Oils
- Margarine
- Snacks
- Cured meats
- Soft drinks and processed foods
Full guide: foods containing E304 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E304 safe?
E304 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E304.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E304 vegan?
E304 is uncertain for vegans — it is vitamin C combined with palmitic acid, which can come from palm oil or animal fat, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Full vegan status guide for E304 →Is E304 halal?
E304 is mashbooh (doubtful) — vitamin C combined with palmitic acid, which can come from palm oil or animal fat. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Full halal status guide for E304 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E304 in food?
E304 is Ascorbyl Palmitate — vitamin C combined with palmitic acid, which can come from palm oil or animal fat, used as a antioxidant to help stop fats and oils turning rancid and protect food colour and flavour.
Is E304 safe to eat?
Yes. E304 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E304 vegan?
E304 is uncertain for vegans — it is vitamin C combined with palmitic acid, which can come from palm oil or animal fat, and the label doesn't reveal the source. Look for a vegan certification or ask the manufacturer.
Is E304 halal?
E304 is mashbooh (doubtful) — vitamin C combined with palmitic acid, which can come from palm oil or animal fat. Verify the source with the manufacturer or choose halal-certified products.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).