E316: Sodium Erythorbate
Main role: oxidation and cured-color control
Also listed as: sodium isoascorbate
What is E316 (Sodium Erythorbate)?
Sodium erythorbate E316 is the sodium salt of erythorbic acid. It is frequently encountered in cured-meat formulations, where it supports antioxidant and color-control functions. Its name is easily confused with sodium ascorbate E301, a different ingredient.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is oxidation and cured-color control. An antioxidant additive helps manage oxidation within the food, such as changes in fat, flavor, or color. That technical role is separate from claims that eating the ingredient will provide a particular health benefit.
Food and formulation examples
- Cured meat preparations
- Specified fish products
- Antioxidant ingredient blends
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E316, E 316, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include sodium isoascorbate. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Adding E316 does not by itself make a cured-meat product a source of vitamin C. Compare salt, serving size, and the entire preservation system on the product label.
Is E316 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E316 as Sodium erythorbate. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.