The synthesis, properties, and applications of ascorbyl esters

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Abstract
Ascorbic acid is a naturally occurring antioxidant. Nevertheless, its primary applications as an antioxidant in the life science, food and pharmaceutical industries are limited because of its hydrophilic nature. Alternatively, ascorbyl acid esters are potential surfactants and antioxidants. Chemical methods for the synthesis of ascorbyl esters lead to the formation of side products and simultaneous decomposition of ascorbic acid due to harsh reaction conditions. In contrast, lipases are used as regioselective and mild catalysts for the synthesis of ascorbyl esters. So far, various acyl donors namely, fatty acids, fatty acid alkyl esters, fatty acid vinyl esters and triacylglycerols have been explored for the synthesis of ascorbyl fatty esters. Other compounds such as L‐methyl lactate, bixin, phenyl butyric acid are also used as acyl donors. This article is focused on the recent developments of lipase‐catalyzed synthesis of ascorbyl esters, their antioxidant properties and applications.