Sot Lecithin
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What it is
Soy lecithin is a fatty substance derived from soybeans. It is typically produced by extracting it from soybean oil during the refining process. Soy lecithin is a mixture of phospholipids, which are fat-like molecules.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use soy lecithin primarily as an emulsifier, helping to blend ingredients that don't normally mix, like oil and water. It also acts as a stabilizer, thickener, and preservative in many foods. You can find it in baked goods, chocolate, margarine, and processed snacks.
Health notes
In the U.S., soy lecithin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. It is commonly consumed in small amounts as part of food. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated soy lecithin. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical dietary intake.
Allergen info
Soy lecithin is derived from soy, which is one of the FDA's nine major allergens. While highly processed soy lecithin often has most of the allergenic protein removed, individuals with severe soy allergies should exercise caution.