Ascorbic Acid Ph is a white to slightly yellow crystalline powder with a strong acid taste. It melts at about 190 °C with decomposition. Ascorbic Acid Ph is freely soluble in water and sparingly soluble in alcohol. It is stable to air if protected from humidity, but is somewhat sensitive to heat. Ascorbic Acid Ph meets all requirements of the current version of the USP, JP and Ph. Eur. when tested according to these compendia. Ascorbic Acid Ph is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry due to its antioxidant properties. It helps increase the shelf life of drugs by protecting them from oxidation. Ascorbic Acid Ph also helps enhance the absorption of iron from dietary supplements and fortified foods.