Lecithins
What is Lecithins?
Lecithins are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in plant and animal tissues. They are typically produced commercially by extracting them from sources like soybean or sunflower seeds, or from egg yolks, and then purifying them. Lecithins are a type of phospholipid, essential components of cell membranes.
Is Lecithins a major allergen?
Lecithins can be derived from soya, which is one of the 14 major allergens that must be declared on UK food labels.
What is Lecithins used for?
Lecithins are primarily used as emulsifiers in food manufacturing, helping to blend ingredients that would normally separate, such as oil and water.
Is Lecithins safe?
Lecithins are authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Lecithins are primarily used as emulsifiers in food manufacturing, helping to blend ingredients that would normally separate, such as oil and water. This stabilising property makes them useful in a wide range of products including baked goods, confectionery, dressings, and processed meats. They can also act as a release agent and contribute to a smoother texture.
Health notes
Lecithins are authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. They are widely consumed in the diet from various food sources. European food safety authorities have evaluated lecithins, and they are generally considered safe for consumption at typical dietary levels. There is no widespread controversy surrounding their use in food.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.5 dehydrated milk as defined by directive 2001/114/ec | No numerical limit listed |
| 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* | 10000 |
| 2.1 fats and oils essentially free from water (excluding anhydrous milk fat) | 30000 |
| 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC | No numerical limit listed |
| 6.4.1 Fresh pasta | No numerical limit listed |
| 6.4.3 Fresh pre-cooked pasta | No numerical limit listed |
| 7.1.1 Bread prepared solely with the following ingredients: wheat flour, water, yeast or leaven, salt | No numerical limit listed |
| 7.1.2 Pain courant français; Friss búzakenyér, Fehér és Félbarna kenyerek | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1 foods for infants and young children | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.1 infant formulae as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 1000 |
| 13.1.2 follow-on formulae as defined by by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 1000 |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 10000 |
Allergen info
Lecithins can be derived from soya, which is one of the 14 major allergens that must be declared on UK food labels. If derived from soya, it must be emphasised. If derived from other sources like sunflower or egg, it would not be subject to this specific allergen labelling requirement.
Foods that contain Lecithins
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