Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that is also referred to as ascorbic acid and has the molecular formula C6H8O6. It is a white crystalline solid and is found naturally in several fruits and vegetables.
Fortification
Food and Nutrition
Ascorbic acid is also widely used as a food preservative to increase the vitamin C content in various foods.
It is commonly added to beverages, breakfast cereals, snacks and other processed foods in order to enhance their nutritive value.
Is used as an antioxidant which inhibits the process of oxidation and rancidity of the food products.
Helps in preserving the colour, taste as well as the general outlook of the food products during processing and storage.
It acts as a curing agent in the preparation of cured meats such as ham, bacon and sausages.
Helps in enhancing the colour and flavour of cured meat products.
Applied in the food and beverages industries to regulate the pH of the products to a certain level.
Aids in improving the stability and quality of the products in the market.
Vitamin C may be used as a browning inhibitor to minimize the browning of some fruits and vegetables.
Helps in maintaining the natural colour and texture of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Ascorbic acid is usually packaged in packs, drums or bulk packs depending on the requirements of the food industry.