E304 is ascorbyl palmitate, a fat-soluble antioxidant used in oils, baked goods, and infant formula. SANHA classifies E304 as Halaal. JAKIM Handbook 2010 classifies E304 as Mushbooh, halal when the palmitic acid is plant-derived but haram when it is from pork fat. MUIS marks E304 as syubhah, noting it is an ester comprising ascorbic acid and palmitic acid. Because the fatty-acid source is rarely disclosed on the label, E304 is doubtful by default.

Food-safety note

Permitted as an antioxidant in Australia and New Zealand under the Food Standards Code (Schedule 15), at good manufacturing practice. A fat-soluble form of vitamin C (ascorbyl palmitate) used to protect oils and fats from going rancid; assessed safe at the levels used in food. (Source: FSANZ; Food Standards Code Schedule 15.)

Common questions

Is E304 halal?

Fatty Acid Esters of Ascorbic Acid (E304) is classified doubtful. JAKIM Handbook 2010, MUIS, and IFANCA classify it as doubtful; SANHA classifies it as halal.

What is E304 made from?

Fatty Acid Esters of Ascorbic Acid (E304) is commonly found in Vegetable oils, infant formula, cured meats, and dietary supplements.

Found in

Vegetable oilsinfant formulacured meatsdietary supplementsbaked goods

Also known as

Ascorbyl palmitate, 6-O-Palmitoyl-L-ascorbic acid, Ascorbyl stearate.