Food additive

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An overview of lecithin as a food additive


Lecithin as a Food Additive[edit | edit source]

Lecithin formulations in various forms

Lecithin is a food additive commonly used in the food industry for its emulsifying properties. It is a naturally occurring group of phospholipids found in egg yolks, soybeans, and sunflower seeds. Lecithin is valued for its ability to stabilize emulsions, improve texture, and extend the shelf life of various food products.

Sources of Lecithin[edit | edit source]

Lecithin can be derived from several natural sources:

Functions in Food[edit | edit source]

Lecithin serves several important functions in food processing:

Health Considerations[edit | edit source]

Lecithin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is a source of choline, an essential nutrient that supports liver function, brain development, and muscle movement. However, individuals with soy allergies should be cautious with soy-derived lecithin.

Applications in Food Products[edit | edit source]

Lecithin is used in a wide range of food products, including:

Related pages[edit | edit source]

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