Ascorbic Acid is more commonly known as Vitamin C, an essential nutrient for humans and certain animals. Vitamin C is naturally found in citrus fruits as well as other fruits and vegetables. It is an acidulant, which creates a sour taste in food and beverages. Many foods are fortified with ascorbic acid to help replenish vitamin C that may be lost in these ways. Ascorbic acid is often added to fruit juices, cereals, fruit-flavored candies, dried fruit, cured meats and frozen fruits, to fortify or add a citrus flavor.
Deficiencies in Vitamin C can lead to impaired collagen synthesis, slow wound healing, and even scurvy.
Food and Beverage Uses
Ascorbic Acid is also an antioxidant, which may prevent or delay certain types of cell damage. Because of this antioxidant property, it is sometimes used to keep fruits or vegetables from browning, which is a sign of oxidation. In canning, Ascorbic Acid Powder helps maintain color and flavor. Vitamin C can also be diminished by heat, boiling water, or even air. Ascorbic Acid is often used to replenish the Vitamin C that has been lost in those ways.
Uses in Industrial and Manufacturing
Ascorbic acid is used in an array of industrial and manufacturing applications. A couple of examples are as a developing agent and preservative in photo production, and in water purification, where it is used to help remove the taste of iodine in sterilized, potable water. Scientists also use ascorbic acid in fluorescence microscopy, an essential tool to understanding cell biology. In this application, ascorbic acid helps increase fluorescence, making cells more visible to researchers.
Uses in Pool and Spa
Ascorbic Acid can also be used in pool/spa maintenance. It is a great pH reducer as well as a stain remover by making the iron in the stain more soluble. Generally, for every 10,000 gallons of water, use 0.5lbs of ascorbic acid. It is recommended that you make a solution first and then add the solution to your pool or spa, distributing evenly. To make the solution, fill a bucket halfway with your pool or spa water then add the ascorbic acid and stir until fully dissolved.
Level 7 Chemical offers Ascorbic Acid in a 10lb bag size as well as full 55lb boxes up to a full pallet!
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