Abstract: An ascorbic acid or erythorbic acid derivative represented by the following general formula: ##STR1## wherein n represents an integer of 4 to 20; and a process for producing said ascorbic acid or erythorbic acid derivative which comprises heat-treating 2,5,6-triacyl-substituted-ascorbic acid or -erythorbic acid represented by the following general formula: ##STR2## wherein n represents an integer of 4 to 20, in the presence of water and/or a lower aliphatic alcohol at a temperature of 30.degree. C. to 100.degree. C. and thereby selectively eliminating only the acyl group of the 2-position.

Abstract: A granular composition for use in the agricultural and horticulture fields is prepared by mixing an active ingredient, such as an insecticide, fungicide or herbicide and a solvent or a binder with a carrier consisting of 0-30% of particles larger than 149 .mu. (100 mesh), 40-90% of particles between 149 .mu. (100 mesh) and 46 .mu. (300 mesh) and 10-30% of particles smaller than 46 .mu.. Finely divided particles of moisture-absorbing substances may be added when the carrier has been moderately granulated in the course of the production process. The composition is suited for spraying by helicopters or multi-nozzle hoses on dusters, for example.