Acerola Extract Powder: Natural Vitamin C for Manufacturers
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Acerola extract powder is the leading natural alternative to synthetic ascorbic acid. Derived from the acerola cherry, it delivers standardized vitamin C from a fruit source — a distinction that matters for clean-label and natural-positioned products. This guide covers what acerola extract is, how it compares to synthetic vitamin C, and how to source it in bulk in Canada.
What Is Acerola Extract?
Acerola extract powder is a spray-dried extract of the fruit of Malpighia emarginata, a cherry-like fruit native to the Americas and among the richest natural sources of vitamin C. The extract is standardized for naturally occurring ascorbic acid — typically 25% ± 2.5% vitamin C — and supplied as an off-white powder that dissolves readily in water (>99.6% solubility).
Acerola vs. Synthetic Ascorbic Acid
Both deliver vitamin C, but they serve different positioning strategies:
- Label declaration: acerola can be declared as a fruit extract (« acerola extract ») rather than an additive name — a significant advantage for clean-label products.
- Natural positioning: for products marketed as natural or plant-based, a fruit-derived vitamin C source aligns with the brand promise in a way synthetic ascorbic acid cannot.
- Concentration and cost: synthetic ascorbic acid is ≥99% vitamin C; acerola extract at 25% requires roughly four times the dose for the same vitamin C content, at a higher cost per gram of vitamin C. The premium buys the natural claim.
- Matrix: acerola brings the fruit's natural co-constituents, plus a mild fruity note that is easy to work with in most flavour systems.
Typical Applications
- Natural supplements: vitamin C tablets, capsules, and gummies positioned as whole-food or natural.
- Functional beverages: juices, smoothie bases, and wellness shots.
- Food fortification: clean-label products where an additive declaration is undesirable.
Specifications at a Glance
- Botanical name: Malpighia emarginata
- Vitamin C content: 25% ± 2.5% (HPLC)
- Appearance: off-white powder
- Solubility: >99.6% in water
- Country of origin: Brazil
A full certificate of analysis (COA) is available on request for every lot.
Handling Notes
Acerola extract is hygroscopic — it absorbs moisture readily. Keep containers tightly closed and store in a dry place at ambient temperature. In humid production environments, minimize the time the powder is exposed to open air.
Buying Bulk Acerola Extract in Canada
LiquidShop supplies acerola extract powder standardized at 25% vitamin C in bulk by the kilogram for Canadian manufacturers. Sourcing from a Canadian supplier means shorter lead times and simplified logistics. Certificates of analysis are available on request. Contact us to discuss your application and bulk pricing.