Overview
Ascorbyl palmitate (CAS 137-66-6 ), also known by its EU food additive designation E304i , is a fat-soluble ester of vitamin C used commercially as an antioxidant and stabilizer across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing.
Unlike water-soluble ascorbic acid, its lipophilic character makes it effective at protecting oils, fats, and lipid-based systems from oxidative degradation. In food production, it is added to oils, fats, and fat-containing products.
Common applications include margarines, baked goods, and infant formula to extend shelf life by retarding rancidity. Pharmaceutical manufacturers incorporate it into lipid-based drug delivery systems and soft gel formulations where oxidation-sensitive active ingredients require protection.
In cosmetic and personal care formulations, including creams, serums, and sunscreens, it functions as both an antioxidant preservative and a skin-conditioning agent within emulsion systems. It also serves as a co-emulsifier in lipid dispersions.
This functionality improves the stability of oil-in-water systems in both food and topical applications. The material is supplied as a white to yellowish powder or crystalline solid for industrial use.
Standard grades include food-grade meeting FCC specifications, as well as USP and Ph.Eur. grades for pharmaceutical applications. These standards ensure the highest level of purity and safety for global distribution.
Cosmetic-grade material is also commercially available, with purity typically at or above 98%. This high concentration ensures effective performance in complex chemical formulations and sensitive manufacturing processes.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 116 °C |
| Boiling Point | 512.7±50.0 °C(Predicted) |
| Density | 1.150±0.06 g/cm3(Predicted) |
| Color | White to Pale Gray |
| Odor | wh. or yel.-wh. powd., citrus odor |
| Form | neat |
| Refractive Index | 22.5 ° (C=1, EtOH) |
| Log P | 6.5 at 30℃ and pH1.9 |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 Hazard Statements H319 Causes serious eye irritation H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29362700 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 137-66-6
- EC Number
- 205-305-4
- Mol. Weight
- 414.5
- HS Code
- 29362700
- Category
- Surfactants