Ascorbic acid is one form of vitamin C

Vitamin C, a water soluble vitamin, is a potent antioxidant and studies suggest that this nutrient may prevent premature death from heart disease and cancer. Vitamin C plays a primary role in collagen formation which is essential for the growth and repair of tissue cells, gums, blood vessels, bones, and teeth. Smokers and older people have a greater need for this vitamin. There is absolutely no proof that esterified Vitamin C or other specialized versions of it are more easily absorbed by the body than ascorbic acid.
Ascorbic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound with antioxidant properties. Ascorbic acid is one form of vitamin C. At first it was supposed that the acid properties were responsible for this benefit; however, it soon became clear that other dietary acids, such as vinegar, had not any effect. It lasted until 1907 before a scienctific result was achieved in the way that two Norwegian physicians discovered an essential disease-preventing compound in foods that was distinct from the one that prevented Beriberi.
This is why beverages, foods, and supplements which are fortified with ascorbic acid can say they contain this vitamin. Technically they do contain it, since according to the FDA, they’re allowed to call it that. It has been said that without those co-factors occurring naturally, your body may need to get them from its own reserves in order to fill in the missing pieces.
However Ascorbic acid as a food additives is water soluble, therefore you it leaves your body via urination after just a few hours. So unless you are eating these foods multiple times per day, you can see why many say it is best to also use supplements. However I have been able to get mine online for extremely affordable prices which I feel are comparable to the cheap big brands you see on the drugstore shelf. As we learn more about them, I predict whole food vitamins will become huge.
Other food additives: Xanthan Gum        Zeaxanthin        Lycopene