Legithin

Legithin is a brand name for lecithin, a type of fat that is naturally found in egg yolks and soybeans. It is typically produced commercially by extracting it from soybean oil. This process involves degumming the crude soybean oil to remove phospholipids, which are the primary components of lecithin.

Manufacturers add legithin primarily as an emulsifier, which helps to blend ingredients that don't normally mix, like oil and water. This is especially useful in chocolate and confectionery to create a smooth texture and prevent fat bloom. It is also used in baked goods, margarine, and processed foods.

Lecithin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive. It is a common component of cell membranes and plays a role in fat metabolism. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience mild digestive upset. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have also evaluated lecithin, and it is widely used globally.