Sodium L-ascorbyl-2-phosphate
[CAS# 66170-10-3]

Identification

• Classification: Food additive >> Nutrition supplements >> Vitamins
• Name: Sodium L-ascorbyl-2-phosphate
• Synonyms: 2-Phospho-L-ascorbic acid trisodium salt; L-Ascorbic acid 2-phosphate trisodium salt
• Molecular Formula: C₆H₆Na₃O₉P
• Molecular Weight: 322.05
• CAS Registry Number: 66170-10-3
• EC Number: 425-180-1
• SMILES: C([C@@H]([C@@H]1C(=C(C(=O)O1)OP(=O)([O-])[O-])[O-])O)O.[Na+].[Na+].[Na+]

Properties

• Melting point: 260 °C

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H315-H319-H335
• Safety Statements: P261-P305+P351+P338

Discovery and Applications

Sodium ascorbyl-2-phosphate (SAP) is a stable derivative of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) that offers increased stability and efficacy compared to its precursor. This chemical modification involves phosphorylation of the 2-hydroxyl group of ascorbic acid, resulting in a compound that is more resistant to oxidation and degradation, making it a valuable ingredient in a variety of formulations.

The development of SAP stemmed from the need to overcome the instability of ascorbic acid, which rapidly degrades when exposed to air, light, and heat. Scientists sought to stabilize vitamin C while maintaining its biological activity. The phosphorylation process (adding a phosphate group to the ascorbic acid molecule) achieved this goal. SAP was first introduced in the late 20th century and has since gained traction for its stability and ease of use in a variety of applications.

SAP is used across a variety of industries due to its versatile properties: SAP is widely used in skin care products because it delivers the benefits of vitamin C without the associated instability. It promotes collagen synthesis, reduces pigmentation, and provides antioxidant protection. SAP's stability ensures long-term efficacy in formulations, making it a key ingredient in anti-aging and brightening products.

In the pharmaceutical industry, SAP is used for its antioxidant properties to enhance the stability of drugs and supplements. It supports immune function and helps prevent diseases associated with oxidative stress.

SAP is also used in foods and nutritional supplements. Its stability allows it to be added to beverages, fortified foods, and dietary supplements to provide a reliable source of vitamin C without the rapid degradation of ascorbic acid.

References

2023. Thermosensitive hydrogel coupled with sodium ascorbyl phosphate promotes human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell-mediated skin wound healing in mice. Scientific Reports, 13(1).
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38666-w

1989. L-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate stimulates collagen accumulation, cell proliferation, and formation of a three-dimensional tissuelike substance by skin fibroblasts. Journal of Cellular Physiology, 138(1).
DOI: 10.1002/jcp.1041380103

1981. Improved red blood cell storage using optional additive systems (OAS) containing adenine, glucose and ascorbate-2-phosphate. Transfusion, 21(6).
DOI: 10.1046/j.1537-2995.1981.21682085764.x