Vitamin C: supplement forms and food powders
The forms of vitamin C you will see on supplement labels, the fruit powders sold for their natural vitamin C, and how to compare them.
Updated 15 November 2026 · Published by Radiant Life Distributors
Forms on the label
| Form | What it is |
|---|---|
| Ascorbic acid | Vitamin C itself; the most common form |
| Sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate | "Buffered" mineral salts of vitamin C, less acidic; the label shows the vitamin C equivalent |
| Ascorbyl palmitate | A fat-soluble form, often used in skincare and as an antioxidant in foods |
| Liposomal vitamin C | Vitamin C encapsulated in fat-based particles; usually priced higher per milligram |
As with minerals, a buffered product's label may show the weight of the salt and the amount of vitamin C it supplies. Compare the vitamin C figure.
Vitamin C food powders
Some fruit powders are sold as foods for their natural vitamin C content:
- Acerola — the Barbados or West Indian cherry, usually sold as a freeze-dried or spray-dried powder.
- Kakadu plum — a native Australian fruit (gubinge, Terminalia ferdinandiana) harvested in northern Australia.
- Camu camu — a fruit from the Amazon region, sold as a powder.
- Rosehip — the fruit of the rose plant, sold as powders, teas and syrups.
Because these are foods, they carry a nutrition information panel rather than an AUST L number, and their vitamin C content varies from batch to batch.
How to compare
- For supplements, compare cost per 1,000 mg of vitamin C.
- For food powders, check the nutrition panel for vitamin C per serve if it is stated, and the serves per pack.
- Check AUST L numbers on the ARTG — see how to check a supplement.
General information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet. Always read the label and follow the directions for use, and check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting a supplement, especially if you take other medicines, are pregnant or are managing a health condition.
Questions
What is buffered vitamin C?
Vitamin C in the form of a mineral salt, such as sodium or calcium ascorbate, which is less acidic than ascorbic acid.
Which fruits are sold as vitamin C powders?
Acerola, Kakadu plum, camu camu and rosehip are the most common.
Do vitamin C food powders have an AUST L number?
No. They are sold as foods and carry a nutrition information panel instead.