Safety and Hazards
Information on safety and hazards for this compound, including safety/hazards properties, reactivity, incompatibilities, management techniques, first aid treatments, and more. For toxicity and related information, please see the Toxicity section.
Hazards Identification
This section identifies the hazards of the chemical presented on the safety data sheet (SDS) and the appropriate warning information associated with those hazards. The information in this section includes, but are not limited to, the hazard classification of the chemical, signal word, pictograms, hazard statements and precautionary statements.
GHS Classification
GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) is a United Nations system to identify hazardous chemicals and to inform users about these hazards. GHS has been adopted by many countries around the world and is now also used as the basis for international and national transport regulations for dangerous goods. The GHS hazard statements, class categories, pictograms, signal words, and the precautionary statements can be found on the PubChem GHS page.
This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 97.3% (572 of 588) of all reports.
Not Classified
Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria by 572 of 588 companies (only 2.7% companies provided GHS information). For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.
Aggregated GHS information provided per 588 reports by companies from 8 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory.
Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 572 of 588 reports by companies.
There are 5 notifications provided by 16 of 588 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).
Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.ECHA C&L website.
Not Classified
Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria by 1 of 1 companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.
Hazard Classes and Categories
The Hazard Classes and Categories are aligned with GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) hazard statement codes. The percentage data in the parenthesis from ECHA indicates that the hazard classes and categories information are consolidated from multiple companies. Also, see the detailed explanation from the above GHS classification section.
Not Classified
Not Classified
EPA Safer Chemical
EPA labels products so that consumers can easily choose ones that are safer for people and the environment. When consumers see the Safer Choice label on a product, they can be confident that the ingredients have been through a rigorous EPA review. The label means that EPA scientists have evaluated every ingredient in the product to ensure it meets Safer Choice's stringent criteria. When people use Safer Choice products, they are protecting their families and the environment by making safer chemical choices.
Chemical: Ascorbic acid
Green circle - The chemical has been verified to be of low concern based on experimental and modeled data.
Health Hazards
Description of the chemical's health hazards (e.g., toxicity, corrosivity, and flammability) that can have negative impacts on our short- or long-term health.
SYMPTOMS: Symptoms of exposure to this compound may include irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal distress and diarrhea. Exposure may also cause the formation of renal calcium oxalate calculi. There have been cases of allergic reaction with eczema, urticaria and asthma. The mucolytic effect of this compound might render the cervical mucus less permeable to spermatozoa.
ACUTE/CHRONIC HAZARDS: This compound may cause irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. (NTP, 1992)
Fire Hazards
Fire hazard means any situation, process, material or condition which may cause a fire or explosion or provide a ready fuel supply to increase the spread or intensity of the fire or explosion and which poses a threat to life or property. This section provides information on fire hazards involving this chemical.
Flash point data for this chemical are not available; however, it is probably combustible. (NTP, 1992)
Combustible under specific conditions. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire. Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.
Hazards Summary
This section provides an overview of the key hazards information of this compound.
A strong reducing agent; A skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant; [ICSC] Excessive doses (chronic ingestion or intravenous) can cause acute renal failure or nephropathy secondary to a metabolite, oxalic acid. Chronic ingestion of more than 4 g/day can produce nephropathy. [Olson, p. 445-6] No evidence of carcinogenicity in mice or rats; [NTP] May cause irritation; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
Safety and Hazard Properties
This section lists the chemical's safety and hazard characteristics, such as the explosive/flammable limits, critical temperature and pressure, exposure limits, etc.
Critical Temperature & Pressure
The critical temperature of a substance is the temperature at and above which vapor of the substance cannot be liquefied, no matter how much pressure is applied. The critical pressure of a substance is the pressure required to liquefy a gas at its critical temperature.
Critical temperature = 783 deg K; critical pressure = 5.29X10+6 Pa.
Physical Dangers
The possibility of physical injury or sickness that could result in grave physical harm or death. An example of physical dangers is fire/explosion due to raw materials.
Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air.
Explosive Limits and Potential
This section shows lower and upper explosive limits of this chemical and other information on its explosive potential. Explosive limits specify the concentration range of a material in air which will burn or explode in the presence of an ignition source. There are two types of explosive limits: lower explosive limit (LEL) and upper explosive limit (UEL). The explosive limits are usually given as the percent by volume of the material in the air (e.g., 5%).
Dust forms explosible mixtures in air with moderate explosion severity.
First Aid Measures
This section describes the initial care that should be given to an individual who has been exposed to the chemical. The information in this section includes the description of the symptoms or effects of exposure to the chemical, necessary first-aid instructions by relevant routes of exposure (inhalation, skin and eye contact, and ingestion), and recommendations for immediate medical care and special treatment needed, when necessary.
Fresh air, rest.
Rinse with plenty of water (remove contact lenses if easily possible).
Rinse mouth.
First Aid
First aid measures for exposure to this chemical through various routes (for example, ingestion, inhalation, skin contact, and eye contact).
EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.
SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.
INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.
INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)
Fire Fighting
This section provides fire fighting information, including fire fighting procedures and hazards.
Fires involving this material can be controlled with a dry chemical, carbon dioxide or Halon extinguisher. A water spray may also be used. (NTP, 1992)
Use water spray, powder, carbon dioxide.
Accidental Release Measures
This section provides recommendations on the appropriate response to spills, leaks, or releases, including containment and cleanup practices to prevent or minimize exposure to people, properties, or the environment. It may also include recommendations distinguishing between responses for large and small spills where the spill volume has a significant impact on the hazard.
Spillage Disposal
Methods for containment and safety measures to protect workers dealing with a spillage of this chemical.
Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Collect the spilled substance into containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Wash away remainder with plenty of water.
Disposal Methods
Disposal methods or procedures for this chemical or hazardous waste containing it.
SRP: Expired or waste pharmaceuticals shall carefully take into consideration applicable DEA, EPA, and FDA regulations. It is not appropriate to dispose by flushing the pharmaceutical down the toilet or discarding to trash. If possible return the pharmaceutical to the manufacturer for proper disposal being careful to properly label and securely package the material. Alternatively, the waste pharmaceutical shall be labeled, securely packaged and transported by a state licensed medical waste contractor to dispose by burial in a licensed hazardous or toxic waste landfill or incinerator.
SRP: At the time of review, regulatory criteria for small quantity disposal are subject to significant revision, however, household quantities of waste pharmaceuticals may be managed as follows: Mix with wet cat litter or coffee grounds, double bag in plastic, discard in trash.
SRP: Criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.
Handling and Storage
This section provides guidance on the safe handling practices and storage conditions for this chemical. The information in this section includes precautions for safe handling, such as recommendations for handling incompatible chemicals, minimizing the release of the chemical into the environment, and providing advice on general hygiene practices (e.g., eating, drinking, and smoking in work areas is prohibited). In addition, this section provides recommendations on the conditions for safe storage (including any incompatibilities) as well as advice on specific storage requirements (e.g., ventilation requirements).
Nonfire Spill Response
Emergency response measures to take in the event of a chemical spill (without a fire).
SMALL SPILLS AND LEAKAGE: If you spill this chemical, you should dampen the solid spill material with water, then transfer the dampened material to a suitable container. Use absorbent paper dampened with water to pick up any remaining material. Seal your contaminated clothing and the absorbent paper in a vapor-tight plastic bag for eventual disposal. Wash all contaminated surfaces with a soap and water solution. Do not reenter the contaminated area until the Safety Officer (or other responsible person) has verified that the area has been properly cleaned.
STORAGE PRECAUTIONS: You should protect this chemical from exposure to light. Keep the container tightly closed under an inert atmosphere, and store under refrigerated temperatures. (NTP, 1992)
Safe Storage
Measures to take for safe storage of this chemical.
Separated from strong oxidants and strong bases.
Storage Conditions
Conditions for safe storage of this compound, including any incompatible chemicals and specific storage requirements (e.g., ventilation requirements).
Solutions of ascorbic acid are rapidly oxidized in air and in alkaline media; the drug should be protected from air and light.
Exposure Control and Personal Protection
This section provides information on the exposure limits, engineering controls, and personal protective measures that can be used to minimize worker exposure. The information in this section includes OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs), American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Values (TLVs), and any other exposure limit used or recommended by the chemical manufacturer, importer, or employer preparing the safety data sheet, where available. In addition, this section contains information on appropriate engineering controls (e.g., use local exhaust ventilation, or use only in an enclosed system) as well as recommendations for personal protective measures to prevent illness or injury from exposure to chemicals, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., appropriate types of eye, face, skin or respiratory protection needed based on hazards and potential exposure).
Inhalation Risk
Risk of exposure to this chemical through inhalation. Note that the terms "risk" and "hazard" have different meanings. A hazard is something that has the potential to cause harm, while risk is the likelihood of harm taking place, based on exposure to that hazard.
No indication can be given about the rate at which a harmful concentration of this substance in the air is reached on evaporation at 20Â °C.
Acceptable Daily Intakes
An estimate of the amount of a chemical in food or drinking water that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without presenting an appreciable risk to health. It is usually expressed as milligrams of the substance per kilogram of body weight per day and applies to chemicals such as food additives, pesticide residues and veterinary drugs.
JECFA: ADI: Not specified (intake from food does not represent a hazard to health)
Allowable Tolerances
The tolerances of a chemical (usually a pesticide) are the maximum amount of chemical residues allowed to remain in or on fruits, vegetables, grains, and other foods, as part of the process of regulating pesticides. In some countries tolerances are called maximum residue limits (MRLs).
Unless specifically excluded, residues resulting from the use of the following substances as either an inert or an active ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation, including antimicrobial pesticide chemicals, are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance under FFDCA section 408, if such use is in accordance with good agricultural or manufacturing practices. Ascorbic acid is included on this list.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) to use when handling this chemical.
RECOMMENDED RESPIRATOR: Where the neat test chemical is weighed and diluted, wear a NIOSH-approved half face respirator equipped with an organic vapor/acid gas cartridge (specific for organic vapors, HCl, acid gas and SO2) with a dust/mist filter. (NTP, 1992)
Fire Prevention
Precautionary measures to prevent fires from this chemical.
NO open flames. PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST.
Inhalation Prevention
Precautionary measures to avoid inhalation of this chemical.
Use ventilation.
Eye Prevention
Precautionary measures to avoid eye exposure to this chemical.
Wear safety spectacles.
Stability and Reactivity
This section describes the stability and reactivity hazards of the chemical. For some compounds, related information may also be found in the "Stability/Shelf Life" section under Experimental Properties (if available).
Air and Water Reactions
Special alerts if this chemical reacts with air, water, or moisture.
May be sensitive to prolonged exposure to air and light. Sensitive to moisture. Soluble in water. Aqueous solutions are oxidized by air in a reaction that is accelerated by alkalis, iron and copper. The rate depends on the pH and on oxygen concentration. Also subject to degradation under anaerobic conditions.
Reactive Group
List of reactive groups that this chemical belongs to, according to CAMEO Chemicals at the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Alcohols and Polyols
Esters, Sulfate Esters, Phosphate Esters, Thiophosphate Esters, and Borate Esters
Hydrocarbons, Aliphatic Unsaturated
Acids, Weak
Reactivity Alerts
Special alerts if the chemical is especially reactive.
Strong Reducing Agent
Reactivity Profile
Description of the chemical's potential reactivity with other chemicals, air, and water. Also it includes any other intrinsic reactive hazards (such as polymerizable or peroxidizable).
L-ASCORBIC ACID is a lactone. Reacts as a relatively strong reducing agent and decolorizes many dyes. Forms stable metal salts. Incompatible with oxidizers, dyes, alkalis, iron and copper. Also incompatible with ferric salts and salts of heavy metals, particularly copper, zinc and manganese (NTP, 1992).
Regulatory Information
This section lists the regulations related to the safety, health, and environment of the chemical and its associated products. The regulatory information, which may encompass national and/or regional regulations pertaining to the chemical or mixtures, is presented solely for informational purposes. For additional details, please consult the links to the information sources provided under each data entry.
Chemical: L-Ascorbic acid
Dossier complete 05/751/EC, Reg (EU) 2018/155, Reg. (EU) 2020/2007, Reg. (EU) 2022/489, Reg. (EU) No 149/2014
Status: Active Update: 25-10-2012 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/2848
Ascorbic acid: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard
Ascorbic acid: Does not have an individual approval but may be used as a component in a product covered by a group standard. It is not approved for use as a chemical in its own right.
FIFRA Requirements
The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) is the Federal statute that governs the registration, distribution, sale, and use of pesticides in the United States.
Unless specifically excluded, residues resulting from the use of the following substances as either an inert or an active ingredient in a pesticide chemical formulation, including antimicrobial pesticide chemicals, are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance under FFDCA section 408, if such use is in accordance with good agricultural or manufacturing practices. Ascorbic acid is included on this list.
FDA Requirements
FDA requirements regarding this chemical and products containing it. FDA Requirements means any requirements of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), as amended, and any rules or regulations promulgated thereunder which are or may be applicable to the manufacture, sale, labeling or distribution of the products regulated by FDA (e.g., drugs, biologics, dietary supplements, foods, cosmetics, tobacco products, etc.).
Ascorbic acid used as a chemical preservative in food for human consumption is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice.
Ascorbic acid used as a nutrient in food for human consumption is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice.
Drug products containing certain active ingredients offered over-the-counter (OTC) for certain uses. A number of active ingredients have been present in OTC drug products for various uses, as described below. However, based on evidence currently available, there are inadequate data to establish general recognition of the safety and effectiveness of these ingredients for the specified uses: ascorbic acid is included in weight control drug products.
Ascorbic acid used as a chemical preservative in animal drugs, feeds, and related products is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing or feeding practice.
Ascorbic acid used as a nutrient and/or dietary supplement in animal drugs, feeds, and related products is generally recognized as safe when used in accordance with good manufacturing or feeding practice.
Other Safety Information
Miscellaneous safety information for this chemical that is not shown in other sections, such as history, incidents, special reports, and so on.
IMAP assessments - L-Ascorbic acid: Environment tier I assessment
IMAP assessments - L-Ascorbic acid: Human health tier I assessment
Special Reports
Special reports on the safety and hazard of this chemical. Most of them are government documents and review articles.
European Commission, ESIS; IUCLID Dataset, Ascorbic acid (50-81-7) (2000 CD-ROM edition) contains information on use, toxicology, and environmental effects of this chemical as supplied to the European Union by industry.[Available from, as of January 12, 2009: http://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/]
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development; Screening Information Data Set for L-Ascorbic acid (CAS No. 50-81-7). This OECD Initial Assessment of HPV Chemicals is part of a series of OECD SIDS documents published by UNEP Chemicals to facilitate the access to information needed for health and environmental risk assessments of chemicals.[Available from, as of January 13, 2009: http://www.chem.unep.ch/irptc/sids/OECDSIDS/sidspub.html]
IPCS; Poisons Information Monograph: Ascorbic Acid (PIM 046) (1996). Poisons Information Monographs (PIM) are a global database with evaluated information on substances commonly involved in cases of poisoning.[Available from, as of May 16, 2008: http://www.inchem.org/pages/pims.html]
DHHS/NTP; Carcinogenesis Bioassay of L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) (CAS No. 50-81-7) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Feed Study) Technical Report Series No. 247 (1983) NIH Publication No. 83-2503[Available from, as of March 5, 2010: http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/htdocs/LT_rpts/tr247.pdf]
For more Special Reports (Complete) data for L-Ascorbic Acid (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.