Soy Lecithin - And Emulsifier
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.
What it is
Soy lecithin is a fatty substance derived from soybeans. It is typically produced by extracting oil from soybeans and then separating the lecithin from the oil. It is often used as a food additive.
Why it's used
Soy lecithin is primarily used as an emulsifier, helping to blend ingredients that don't normally mix, like oil and water. It also acts as a stabilizer and can improve texture and shelf life. You can find it in a wide range of products, including baked goods, chocolate, margarine, and processed snacks.
Health notes
In the U.S., soy lecithin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as intended. It is a common food ingredient and is not typically associated with adverse health effects at the levels found in food. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated soy lecithin. While some people may have concerns about soy-derived ingredients, soy lecithin is considered safe for most consumers.
Allergen info
Soy lecithin is derived from soy, which is one of the nine FDA major allergens. Individuals with soy allergies should avoid products containing soy lecithin.