Published on 25 October 2026.
Sodium ascorbate often appears on food supplement shelves, next to "classic" vitamin C. It tends to raise the same questions: is it really vitamin C? Why is it called "non-acidic"? And how do you use it? Here are the essentials, simply explained.
Contents
- A simple definition
- Sodium ascorbate or ascorbic acid: what is the difference?
- How much vitamin C does sodium ascorbate provide?
- A form recognised in Europe
- How to use it every day
- The role of vitamin C in the body
- Frequently asked questions
A simple definition
Sodium ascorbate is a salt of vitamin C. It is obtained by combining ascorbic acid (the chemical name of vitamin C) with sodium. The result is a white powder, highly soluble in water, with a pH close to neutral: this is why it is called "non-acidic" vitamin C.
Once dissolved, sodium ascorbate releases the ascorbate ion. This is the form in which vitamin C is used by the body. So it is not a vitamin C "substitute": it is vitamin C, in a less acidic form.
Sodium ascorbate or ascorbic acid: what is the difference?
Both provide vitamin C. What sets them apart:
- Acidity. L-ascorbic acid is acidic and has a tangy taste, close to lemon. Sodium ascorbate has a pH close to neutral and a milder, slightly salty taste.
- Composition. L-ascorbic acid is pure vitamin C. Sodium ascorbate contains vitamin C and a small proportion of sodium.
- Choice. Sodium ascorbate is an alternative for people who prefer a less acidic vitamin C. L-ascorbic acid remains the reference form for those looking for 100% L-ascorbic acid vitamin C.
To find out more about the different forms, read our complete guide to vitamin C.
How much vitamin C does sodium ascorbate provide?
With our sodium ascorbate powder, 4 scoops provide about 900 mg of vitamin C and 100 mg of sodium.
This is useful information if you keep an eye on your daily sodium intake.
A form recognised in Europe
Sodium ascorbate is one of the forms of vitamin C authorised in food supplements under European regulations (Directive 2002/46/EC). It is also found in food under the code E301, where it is used as an antioxidant to preserve certain foods.
How to use it every day
- In a drink. Dissolve the powder in a glass of water, fruit or vegetable juice, or in a smoothie. Its mild taste is soon forgotten.
- Drink it promptly. Like all vitamin C, it gradually oxidises once dissolved: prepare your drink just before you have it.
- Store it well. Close the jar after each use and keep it in a dry place, away from heat and light.
- The right amount. Follow the directions for use on the label (up to 4 scoops a day for our powder, with the measuring scoop included).
The role of vitamin C in the body
Whatever its form, vitamin C has many roles recognised by the European authorities:
- vitamin C contributes to the normal function of the immune system;
- vitamin C contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue;
- vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin;
- vitamin C contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress;
- vitamin C contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism;
- vitamin C increases iron absorption.
The full list of authorised claims is on the product page.
Discover our sodium ascorbate powder →
Frequently asked questions
Is sodium ascorbate vitamin C?
Yes. It is a salt of vitamin C: once dissolved, it releases the ascorbate ion, the form in which vitamin C is used by the body.
Why is it called "non-acidic"?
Because its pH is close to neutral, unlike L-ascorbic acid, which is acidic.
How much vitamin C do 4 scoops provide?
About 900 mg of vitamin C, with 100 mg of sodium.
Can it be mixed with fruit juice?
Yes, it dissolves easily in water, juices and smoothies. Drink the preparation promptly.
Is sodium ascorbate vegan?
Ours is: it contains no ingredients of animal origin. It is made in France and packed in a 500 g jar with a measuring scoop.
