Soy lecithin is a product that is used widely as an ingredient in many foods and other preparations. It is an emulsifier that is a byproduct of soybean oil production. It is often used as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and supplement. Here is what you should know about soy lecithin.

What Is Lecithin?

Lecithin is a complex fatty substance. It can be found in different organic materials, including plant material and animal tissue. For example, in our experience, the most used sources include soy, eggs, and sunflower seeds.

The quality and function of the lecithin largely depend on the source from which it came. Each type of lecithin has unique properties. Soy lecithin is typically preferred. It is odorless and tasteless and is considered non-allergenic. During the processing of the soy to get the lecithin, large allergen proteins are removed, which reduces the allergenic properties.

How Is Lecithin Used?

Lecithin is used as a stabilizer and an emulsifier. It allows ingredients to mix that would normally separate without the benefit of a lecithin additive. It is used in food products like salad dressings, baked goods, dairy products, makeup, and other products.

It improves texture, keeps ingredients from separating and clumping, and delivers a nutritional punch. Lecithin is an additive that has health benefits. It is a primary resource for choline which helps to maintain the membrane and integrity of the cells.

Who Uses Lecithin?

There is a wide range of industries that depend on lecithin as an additive with the food industry as the largest consumer. However, lecithin is often used in pharmaceuticals as a solubility enhancer. It is also used in personal care items as an emollient and stabilizer.

Lecithin is used in the textile industry to soften and protect textiles. It is used in ink manufacturing and paints and other coatings. Laboratories use it in cell cultures. As you can see, it's an incredibly versatile ingredient.

What Are the Health Properties?

Lecithin derived from soy contains plant-based phospholipids, including ethanolamine, choline, antioxidants, and inositol. It is a natural source of essential nutrients. These products are thought to have health benefits, including cell support, heart health support, liver support, and brain health. Lecithin is often used in supplements and offered as a standalone supplement.

Lecithin is believed to help lower cholesterol naturally. The choline in lecithin may help to reduce fatty build-up in the liver. Lipids in lecithin support cell signaling. Antioxidants in lecithin are thought to reduce the presence of free radicals in the body. Lecithin is a powerhouse nutrient.

Is All Soy Lecithin the Same?

Not all soy lecithin is created equally. Organic, non-genetically modified organism (GMO) lecithin is not available as widely as non-organic, GMO lecithin. Certified organic, non-GMO lecithin is often preferred by consumers. Organically grown soy is void of any chemicals or treatments.

Certified organic non-GMO soy lecithin ensures that the soy used in the product has not been genetically modified. Many consumers prefer certified organic, non-GMO soy lecithins because of environmental and health concerns. Organic and non-GMO lecithins don't have any artificial additives that may compromise the lecithin's effectiveness.

How Do You Recognize Organic Options?

Organic, non-GMO soy lecithin is the best form of lecithin for many reasons, but none more important than maintaining the integrity of the lecithin. Choosing organic, non-GMO lecithin is a good choice for both good health and the environment. Organic, non-GMO lecithin will have an organic seal indicating that the soy used to create the lecithin comes from a certified organic farm. It will also be indicated on the label that organic, non-GMO ingredients are used. Knowing the source of the lecithin is an important factor in ensuring you are getting the best quality lecithin.

The quality of the soy lecithin affects the quality of the supplements and the product. According to Benzinga, the organic soy market has an estimated value of $56 million as of 2022. More producers and consumers are choosing organic, non-GMO soy products to ensure safety and quality as well as to do their part for the environment.

It's essential that you work with a provider that offers high-quality lecithin products. If you're looking for a resource that has provided the highest quality organic, non-GMO soy lecithin for over 20 years, you're in luck! To ensure you get all the benefits, call Clarkson Specialty Lecithins today to learn more about organic soy lecithin.