General Information
Lecithins (additive E322) are substances of natural, mostly plant origin, used in the food industry as an antioxidant or emulsifier.
“Lekithos” — translated from Greek means egg yolk. This is a natural product rich in lecithin. Hence the name Lecithin.
The main natural sources of lecithin are foods high in fat: eggs, liver, peanuts, some vegetables, and fruits. In industry, lecithin is obtained from the by-products of soy processing and oil production.
Lecithins have strong surface-active properties, which is why they are most often used in the food industry as emulsifiers. Lecithin as food additive E322 can also act as an antioxidant.
There are two main industrial types of lecithins:
- Lecithin E322(i) – produced from vegetable oils (usually soybean, sometimes also rapeseed or sunflower).
- Partially hydrolyzed lecithin E322(ii) – contains increased amounts of lyso-phospholipids.
Key characteristics of food additive E322:
- Taste — typical of the base raw material;
- Color — from light yellow to dark brown;
- Odor — typical of the base material (a smell of acetone indicates spoilage);
- Consistency — viscous liquid, granules, powder, waxy paste (depending on the form).
Effects on the Body
Benefits
Lecithin is present in almost every cell of the human body. It is essential for:
- regeneration and repair of damaged cells — about 50% of liver cells consist of lecithin;
- proper functioning of the nervous system and brain;
- delivery of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to body cells.
Lecithin deficiency reduces drug absorption. Lecithin prevents the formation of highly toxic compounds in the human body as it is a powerful antioxidant.
There is no regulated acceptable daily intake of lecithins.
Food additive E322 has a rich composition, making it particularly beneficial. It contains:
- phospholipids — essential for the structure and regeneration of cell membranes;
- polyunsaturated fatty acids — boost immunity, strengthen blood vessels, support blood formation;
- tocopherols — strong antioxidants that protect cells from damage;
- plant sterols — reduce “bad” cholesterol and protect against infections;
- triglycerides — nourish cells, lower the risk of heart attacks;
- B vitamins — support the nervous system, normalize acidity, and improve memory.
Lecithin is well absorbed by the body and fully digested. There are no contraindications except individual intolerance.
Harm
Lecithin is beneficial in reasonable amounts. However, excessive intake may cause allergic reactions. It may also be dangerous for people with allergies.
Uses
Food additive E322 can serve various purposes in food products and is used as an antioxidant, emulsifier, stabilizer, flour improver, and moisture-retaining agent.
As an antioxidant, lecithins are used in:
- confectionery products (chocolate, candies, cakes, etc.);
- ice cream;
- baked goods (improves dough elasticity and gluten strength);
- cocoa powder, powdered milk (enhances solubility);
- margarines;
- condensed milk;
- pasta (except those made from durum wheat);
- refined vegetable oils (excluding olive oil).
E322 antioxidant is permitted even in baby food (no more than 10 g per kg), infant formula, and follow-on formula (1 g per liter). Additive E322 is also used in food colorants, fat-soluble antioxidants, and fruit glazes.
Additionally, lecithin is used as an antioxidant and emulsifier in the production of decorative cosmetics, skincare (including for problem skin), and hair care products (shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes).
In cosmetics, lecithin:
- nourishes the skin;
- restores elasticity;
- softens tissue;
- reduces inflammation;
- prevents premature aging;
- normalizes sebaceous gland function;
- strengthens hair roots and improves hair structure.
In the pharmaceutical industry, lecithin is sold as a dietary supplement. It improves drug absorption and reduces the risk of side effects.
In hepatoprotective agents that restore liver function and in treatments for various types of hepatitis, lecithin is used as the active ingredient.
Lecithin is also used in the production of:
- paint and varnish products;
- solvents;
- printing inks;
- agricultural fertilizers;
- vinyl coatings;
- explosives.
Legal Status
Food additive E322 is approved in most countries. The Codex Alimentarius permits the use of E322 as an emulsifier in instant soups and bouillon cubes, breakfast cereals, cocoa, cheese, and other products (14 standards in total).
