Foods with low vitamin c content
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Foods with Low Vitamin C Content: Key Food Groups
Research shows that foods with low vitamin C content are typically those that are not fruits or vegetables, especially not citrus fruits or vitamin C-rich produce. Major food groups with low vitamin C include cereal grains and pasta, fats and oils, and spices and herbs. Additionally, baked products, beef products, finfish and shellfish, dairy and egg products, poultry, fast foods, legumes, soups, sauces, gravies, pork, lamb, veal, game, nuts, seeds, sweets, sausages, luncheon meats, and prepared meals generally contain little to no vitamin C.
Processed and Animal-Based Foods: Minimal Vitamin C
Processed foods and animal-based products such as meats, dairy, eggs, and most baked goods are poor sources of vitamin C. These foods are not naturally high in vitamin C, and unless they are fortified, they contribute very little to daily vitamin C intake. Canned foods, especially if the liquid is discarded, also tend to have reduced vitamin C content due to losses during processing and storage.
Beverages and Snack Foods: Low Vitamin C Unless Fortified
Soft drinks, coffee, tea, alcoholic beverages, and most snack foods are low in vitamin C unless they are specifically fortified. Adults with low vitamin C intake tend to consume more of these beverages and fewer fruits and vegetables. The vitamin C content in these foods and drinks is generally negligible unless added during manufacturing.
Variability and Losses in Vitamin C Content
Even within fruits and vegetables, vitamin C content can vary widely depending on storage, processing, and preparation. Foods exposed to air, heat, or prolonged storage lose vitamin C, so even some plant-based foods may have lower levels if not fresh or properly handled23. Canned and processed plant foods retain some vitamin C, but the amount is often less than in fresh produce.
Baby Foods and Cereal-Based Products: Often Low in Bioavailable Vitamin C
Many baby foods, especially cereal-based varieties, have low bioaccessible vitamin C, even if fortified. The actual amount the body can absorb from these foods is often much lower than the labeled content, especially at higher gastric pH levels.
Conclusion
Foods with low vitamin C content are primarily found in the categories of grains, animal products, processed foods, and most beverages that are not fruit juices or vitamin C-fortified. Fresh fruits and vegetables, especially citrus and certain berries, are the best sources, while most other food groups contribute little to daily vitamin C intake. For optimal vitamin C status, it is important to include a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in the diet and be aware that many common foods are naturally low in this essential nutrient1348.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic