Lecithin, or E322, is a natural food additive that is a fat-like organic structure, namely a complex of phospholipids. The human body uses it as fuel and building material for cell membranes.

If we evaluate the effect of lecithin on the body, then mostly positive trends can be observed. However, the supplement can cause health and harm. It consists in the manifestation of allergic reactions and some other nuances. We will consider this point in more detail at the end of the article.

Lecithin is one of the essential elements fat metabolism of all cells. The substance enters the body along with food. The most generous source of E322 is egg yolk. In addition, the component is found in beef, sunflower oil, corn, peanuts, liver, and certain fruits and vegetables. But for industrial purposes, lecithin is extracted from waste soy products and various oils.

E322 plays a role food emulsifier. The substance is permitted in the countries of the European Union, Ukraine, Russia and Belarus. The supplement is a similar replacement for animal lecithin or polyglycerol (E476), which means it has the same effect on humans.

If we consider E322 solely as a food additive, we can give it the following characteristics.

Lecithin exhibits two technological functions:

1. Antioxidant - slows down oxidation and extends the shelf life of food.
2. Emulsifier – mixes immiscible components (for example, water and fat) under standard conditions.

The substance functions well at the interface between the phases of several substances. In the presence of two immiscible liquid components, lecithin lowers their surface tension.

If necessary, it acts between the solid and liquid state of aggregation and acts as a dispersing and wetting agent. When two solid substances interact, E322 exhibits lubricating properties and prevents them from sticking to each other.

The emulsifier is also used in non-food industries, for example, in the production of fatty paints, their solvents, vinyl coatings, cosmetics. Paper processing, fertilizers, pesticides, explosives and inks will also require E322.

What foods contain lecithin?

The properties of the emulsifier make it possible to add the agent to soluble milk and herbal products, margarine, ready-to-eat glazes. Aerosol coatings and frying fats utilize the lubricity and release properties of individual components. Lecithin can change viscosity and increase the shelf life of chocolate and various glazes.

In baking bakery products E322 plays an important role. The additive improves the dough's processability and volume, and extends its shelf life. The releasing properties make it possible to use lecithin in the preparation of cookies, crackers, pies and muffins - the presence of the substance allows them to separate well from their molds.

What are the consequences of a lack of lecithin?

First of all, with a deficiency of phospholipids, the nervous system suffers. The harm consists of frequent mood swings, insomnia, memory impairment and decreased attention. Such symptoms are the first signal that the body requires lecithin.

Here are a few more unpleasant effects: digestive upset (aversion to fatty foods, frequent diarrhea, bloating), impaired liver and kidney function, increased blood and intracranial pressure, weight loss, poor speech development in children in the first years of life.

The role of the supplement in the body

Almost 50% of the human liver consists of lecithin. One third of the cells that surround the brain and spinal cord also have a phospholipid structure. This substance is a unique material necessary for cell restoration and normal functioning. nervous system.

The effect of the supplement on the body is the following:

• maintaining the liver in working condition, preventing and treating various pathologies of the organ (cirrhosis, obesity, hepatitis, intoxication);
• activating the body's ability to counteract toxins;
• stimulation of bile production;
• manifestation of antioxidant properties, i.e. cleansing the body of substances that cause harm to systems;
• removing “bad” cholesterol and reducing its initial level by 15-20%;
• improvement of blood microcirculation;
• activation of enzymes that break down lipids and stabilization of fat metabolism;
• stimulation of brain activity;
• reducing fatigue and increasing stress resistance;
• improved absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K.

The supplement in the form of a dietary supplement is prescribed to schoolchildren, patients with cardiovascular diseases, liver diseases, and people with alcohol and drug addiction. During physical and intellectual stress positive influence lecithin will come in handy.

The value of the supplement in medicine

In addition to the fact that lecithin has a positive effect on the entire body, it also helps treat many diseases. The substance protects the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines from components that can cause harm. Due to this property, the substance in the form of a dietary supplement is recommended for use by people with gastritis, ulcers and colitis.

Lecithin can reduce the unpleasant symptoms of dermatitis and psoriasis. Therefore, experts use it in complex treatment skin ailments. The substance is also prescribed for women's diseases: mastopathy, mammary gland diseases, uterine fibromatosis. Taking it prevents the occurrence of even malignant tumors of the genital organs. In addition, the supplement increases sexual activity.

The body can thank lecithin for one more property - normalizing blood glucose levels. The substance strengthens the membranes of pancreatic cells, which are responsible for the synthesis of insulin. Scientists have proven that systematic use of lecithin-based dietary supplements helps prevent and stop multiple sclerosis and improve brain activity in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.

Contraindications

Lecithin is sufficient strong allergen. A large number of substances can cause harm to health, especially if you do not monitor the external and internal reactions of the body. You should not take foods rich in E322 if you are hypersensitive. It is also worth limiting the use of lecithin for pregnant and lactating women.

Among side effects nausea, dizziness and increased salivation should be noted. However, this can occur with an overdose of dietary supplements. Along with food products, the body enters optimal quantity additives.

Industrial lecithin can be harmful to the body because it is extracted from soy and its products. Unscrupulous manufacturers sometimes use genetically modified raw materials, which negatively affects health, in particular the reproductive system of women.

19:50

Soy lecithin plays a serious role in the development of the human body and organism. A sufficient amount of it helps ensure that the body fully performs its protective functions and the ability to recover. With a lack of substance, the aging process accelerates and a person becomes more susceptible to disease. However, you need to know that this component may have contraindications.

We will tell you more about the benefits and harms of the well-known emulsifier - soy lecithin - in our article!

Product selection and use

Lecithin – flavoring and biological additive, is produced at low temperatures from refined soybean oil. This substance is found in all tissues of the human body, animals, birds, fish, and plants.

However, it is most important for a person, since in the liver it is 50%, in the spinal cord - 30, in the nervous system - 17%. Largest quantity lecithin is in our heart.

Soy lecithin is a food additive E476. It is obtained from processed vegetable oils. It is a fatty substance, devoid of color, taste and smell.

The additive is used to impart certain properties to food products.. It is added to chocolate, ketchups and other sauces, and ready-made liquid soups.

Lecithin is one of the components confectionery fat , thanks to it, its density, plasticity, and delamination increases. It allows you to fill low fat content oiliness.

An additive is used to accelerate the dissolution of milk powder and increasing the shelf life of dairy products. Under the influence of this component, ice cream and cold desserts turn into a homogeneous mass.

This component is found in food, but our body may still lack it. Nutritional supplements that can be purchased at the pharmacy can help cope with this.

Composition and calorie content

The emulsifier soy lecithin is found in many vitamins. and dietary supplements - for example, Essentiale Forte, which is a hepatoprotector of the liver.

To choose the right supplement, consider the presence or absence of a soy allergy.

If it is not available, it is better to use a component based on soy lecithin, which contains more useful substances than an emulsifier based on sunflower oil.

Please note that the dietary supplement does not contain GMOs. An oily supplement is considered better than a granular one.

Powdered lecithin is more convenient– You can add it to food or dissolve it in drinks.

Calorie content of lecithin is 913 kcal/100 grams. 100 g of product contains 6 g of protein, 97 g of fat and 4 g of carbohydrates.

The supplement contains soy extract, choline, vitamins E, PP, group B, polyunsaturated fatty acids - linoleic, phosphatides.

Beneficial features

Substances in lecithin are responsible for the transmission of nerve impulses. Being lipotropic, they promote fat burning.

Choline and inositol help protect blood vessels , gallbladder and liver from bad cholesterol, harmful plaques.

IN in kind the additive oxidizes and dissolves what is in the body excess fat . It prevents the formation of stones in gallbladder, having a choleretic effect.

Soy lecithin is used in cosmetology– it prevents the evaporation of moisture from the skin, preventing it from aging.

Medicine also actively uses this substance, releasing it in the form of tablets, solutions, capsules, granules, gels. It can be especially useful for older people, premature babies and those who are exposed to high physical and mental stress.

Such drugs are indicated for gastroduodenitis, colitis, they are prescribed to diabetics, as they can improve the production of insulin. Preparations with this substance are useful after a stroke, for diseases of the heart, blood vessels, and liver.

Antioxidant lecithin improves memory and removes toxins from the body. It can also have a beneficial effect on skin diseases.

Lecithin is useful for gynecological diseases, diseases of the mammary glands. It increases sexual activity. It is especially indicated for the fact that one lives or works in conditions with an increased radioactive background, since it removes salts of heavy metals and radionuclides.

This component helps those who are allergic to fatty protein to make their diet complete and balanced.

Features of the effect on the body

• Adult men and women. All of the above are relevant for adults beneficial features.

  For men, this component helps improve potency, for women - to resist gynecological diseases, and to support the body during menopause.

• Pregnant and lactating women. During pregnancy and lactation, the use of lecithin can sometimes be advisable, but it should only be taken on the recommendation of a doctor, otherwise serious complications are possible.
• Children. Lecithin is especially useful for children, particularly premature babies. Its deficiency can provoke headaches, irritability and tearfulness, speech problems, deterioration of attention, aggressiveness, and poor immunity.
• Aged people. Advanced age may be one of the main indications for additional use of the drug. It supports the body, slows down the aging process, improves memory, preventing senile dementia.

Contraindications

Along with a deficiency of lecithin, its excess is also dangerous, which can depress work endocrine system. If you are hypersensitive to the product, an allergic reaction is possible. In rare cases, nausea, dyspepsia, and increased salivation may occur.

Research shows that this substance brings the body significantly less harm than other medications, if you take it on the recommendation of a doctor and follow the instructions.

Caution when taking the drug is necessary for those who suffer from cholelithiasis, as it increases bile secretion, which provokes the movement of gallstones.

The same applies to pregnant and lactating women.

Substance norm for healthy person is 5-7 grams.

The medicine can be added to food or drink, but it shouldn't be too hot.

Please note that products containing soy lecithin are not suitable for everyone.

Diabetics are prohibited from confectionery, bread is recommended to be excluded by those losing weight, and dressings with soy lecithin should not be included in the menu when increased acidity and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Soy lecithin can be purchased in powder, capsule, and gel form. Your doctor should advise what will be best in your case. Daily norm indicated in the instructions.

On the pages of our website you will also learn - natural food additives, which is actively used in molecular gastronomy!

How to use in cooking

Lecithin has been used to thicken sauces for many years., in the manufacture of mayonnaise. The confectionery industry is unthinkable without it.

When added to chocolate, it binds sugar, cocoa powder and cocoa butters. Used for making all kinds of salad dressings , to give the correct texture to baked goods.

In molecular gastronomy, the substance is used to make foam..

You can prepare it yourself. You need to take 100 ml of base (juice, alcohol or any other drink) and 1.2 grams of soy lecithin.

The first thing to do is dissolve lecithin in liquid, stir with a whisk or blender. The temperature can be room temperature or warmer, like hot tap water. After mixing, let the solution sit for several hours.

Shake it with a blender to form foam. This may take a few minutes. Then allow the foam to stabilize for two minutes. Collect it with a spoon. Depending on what liquid you use, the foam can hold its shape from half an hour to several hours, but the sooner you apply it, the better.

Consider a recipe for vegetarian butter, devoid of vegetable fats , where this substance enters in liquid form.

The ingredients will be as follows: a quarter glass and a tablespoon of unsweetened, a teaspoon apple cider vinegar, half a glass plus two tbsp. l. melted coconut oil room temperature, tablespoon, quarter tsp. salt, 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum, teaspoon liquid soy lecithin.

How to prepare butter:

• In a bowl small size whisk soy milk, salt and vinegar. Leave the mixture to infuse for 10-15 minutes. It should thicken and have a consistency similar to yogurt.
• Melt the coconut oil in the microwave or let it cool at room temperature.
In contact with

Soy lecithin is one of the most popular food additives in Food Industry.

This plant emulsifier has become especially widespread on the American continent, displacing egg lecithin from use, the process of obtaining which is more labor-intensive and expensive.

Soy lecithin is one of the most popular nutritional supplements

But what do we know about the benefits and harms of soy lecithin? Is this dietary supplement safe for human body?

What is soy lecithin?

In the food industry, soy lecithin is known as an emulsifier coded E322. It is widely used in confectionery, in the process of making chocolate, in the production of margarine or baby food. Soy lecithin E322 significantly increases shelf life finished products nutrition, simplifies the baking process and allows fats to remain in a liquid state longer.

The food industry also knows soy lecithin E476, which is used as a stabilizer and is sometimes identified with its more famous relative. But these two food additives are far from the same thing.

By the way, E476 is banned in a number of civilized countries of the world, while in our homeland this genetically modified substance is often present in chocolate and candies, pates, mayonnaise and sauces.


When choosing products, it is advisable to give preference to lecithin coded E322

There is constant debate about the benefits and harms of soy lecithin E476, since this stabilizer is large quantities can provoke the development in humans oncological diseases, complex liver diseases with disruption of the basic functions of the gland, as well as enlargement of the kidneys and reduction of their filtration. That is why when choosing finished products it is very important to study its composition and give preference to products containing the emulsifier E322 rather than E476.

What is soy lecithin made of?

What is soy lecithin? This emulsifier additive is highly valued by food manufacturers, as it is a powerful natural antioxidant. plant origin.

Soy lecithin contains:

• B vitamins;
• phosphates;
• phosphodiethiocholine;
• choline;
• inositol;
• linolenic acid.

All these components take an active part in the nutrition of cells of the central nervous system, the processes of transmitting impulses between neurons, and maintaining the balance between inhibition and excitation.

You will learn more about lecithin from the video:


Benefits of emulsifier

Emulsifier soy lecithin GOST 32052-2013 is useful only in cases where it is made from natural and grown naturally soybeans.

It is better not to consume soy lecithin with GMOs, which can often be found in prepared food products, since large quantities of it can provoke the development of cancer and significantly worsen a person’s overall health.

The beneficial effects of soy lecithin on the human body are expressed in the following:

• preventing the formation of atherosclerotic plaques on the walls of blood vessels and reducing the concentration of bad cholesterol in the blood;
• improvement of contractile function of the heart muscle;
• acceleration of metabolic processes in the body;
• oxidation and breakdown of fats, as well as assistance in getting rid of extra pounds;
• improving the outflow and rheological properties of bile;
• prevention of cholelithiasis;
• positive effect on the balance of microelements in the body;
• cell restoration;
• help with brain function;
• improving memorization processes and accelerating the transformation of information;
• protection from stress, elimination of anxiety, unjustified fears, nervousness;
• reducing cravings for nicotine.

Lecithin will help put the nervous system in order and even quit smoking

Other lecithin obtained from sunflower oil. So, which lecithin is better: soy or sunflower? Many people are interested in this question and are interested in the composition of the products they consume.

Naturally, sunflower emulsifier is safer for human health, since it is not prone to cause allergic reactions, which cannot be said about lecithin made from soybeans.

Soy is not always well tolerated by the human body and this should be taken into account when choosing food products.

Features of application

Soy lecithin, due to its positive effects and chemical properties, is currently successfully used in both the food and pharmaceutical industries.

In the food industry

Beneficial soy lecithin can today be found in the most various baked goods, chocolate products, candies, margarine, mayonnaise, pates and the like.

When added to foods, soy lecithin has several effects:

• when kneading dough, enhancing the effect of gluten, soy lecithin increases the plasticity of baked goods, extends their shelf life and promotes better baking of baked goods;
• accelerates the dissolution of granules, for example, powdered milk;
• enhances the effect of antioxidants by binding heavy metal salts;
• prolongs the shelf life of food.

What is soy lecithin in chocolate? Soy lecithin in chocolate is the component that betrays confectionery product his usual appearance.


Without lecithin, chocolate would not hold its shape.

Chocolate without soy lecithin will not hold its shape and will take on the appearance of an ordinary drink. Manufacturers of chocolate without soy lecithin E476 are considered good, since this food additive is one of the unsafe ingredients. While emulsifier E322 is not only allowed to be added to high-quality chocolate, but is even recommended for use as a substance with a huge amount useful properties.

In pharmacology

Unfortunately, in order to compensate for the deficiency of lecithin in the body, a person will have to eat a lot of food products containing this soy emulsifier, which is not always healthy and physically possible.

Therefore, pharmacologists decided that it would be more effective to take the dietary supplement soy lecithin in capsules, each of which already contains required amount substances.

According to the instructions for use, granulated soy lecithin is indicated for use in such cases as:

• smoking addiction;
• liver diseases, including illnesses of viral etiology, which are accompanied by an increase in bile density and poor outflow;
• memory impairment, absent-mindedness, poor concentration;
• tendency to obesity, metabolic failure;
• multiple sclerosis;
• cardiovascular pathological conditions, which are accompanied by hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries;
• developmental delay of the child;
• Soy lecithin during pregnancy is indicated for both the expectant mother and her baby (promotes the normal development of the central nervous system of the fetus, protects the mother’s body from stress, prevents possible disorders of the musculoskeletal system or fat metabolism).

One of the most famous dietary supplements containing soy lecithin is Solgar natural soy lecithin in capsules of 100 pieces.

Solgar Soy Lecithin is a popular dietary supplement

This effective nutritional supplement allows you to quickly replenish the amount of lecithin the body lacks and prevent the occurrence of complex pathological processes associated with its deficiency. Unfortunately, this drug is contraindicated for women who are pregnant or are breastfeeding their baby. Adults should take 1 capsule twice a day with food. Regarding the duration of the course of taking dietary supplements, you should consult a specialist.

Contraindications and possible harm

Is soy lecithin harmful? Many supporters are interested in this healthy eating who do not trust products containing food additives labeled “E”. Currently, there are many scientific works devoted to the benefits and harms of the emulsifier E322.

Fortunately, none of them confirm Negative influence soy lecithin, made from natural soybeans grown without the intervention of genetic engineers, has an effect on the human body. Therefore, E322 is considered to be an absolutely safe food additive.

The only contraindication to the use of soy lecithin is individual intolerance to the components of the substance. People who have a tendency to develop allergic reactions should also take lecithin with caution.

Another thing is lecithin, which is produced from genetically modified soybeans. Such a product can provoke the development of obesity, diseases of the endocrine organs, cancer, and the like.

Similar materials







Lecithin E322 is a food additive of plant origin, a powerful antioxidant. If you translate the word “lekithos” from Greek, it means. The maximum amount of lecithin is found in yolks, as well as meat products, various types vegetable oils, fruits and vegetables.

This substance can be found in the cells of the human body. With its deficiency, it is difficult for a person to cope with various diseases and ailments: fatigue, irritability, insomnia, depression, exhaustion of the nervous system, weakening of memory, constant inattention and others.

The emulsifier lecithin helps create homogeneous emulsions that are used in many fields. And soya beans contain maximum amount E322. When refining vegetable oils, in particular and, an industrial food additive is obtained.

Soy lecithin consists of: glycerin, fatty acids, phosphoric acid and. It is prepared from purified soybean oil with minimal temperature exposure (treatment). Active substance responsible for the integrity of cells in the body, transportation of metabolic products and metabolism.

Positive properties of lecithin

Before you include any nutritional supplement in your diet, you need to clearly know about its positive and negative effects on the human body. Benefits of lecithin: effectively combats high blood pressure, is a means to prevent the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis, and promotes uniform absorption of fats. Taking a dietary supplement improves mental activity, memory, will help overcome depression and get rid of stress. For neurodermatitis, it is imperative to eat foods that contain lecithins.

This substance makes up 50 percent of the liver and one third of the brain tissue. It is primarily a building material that helps regenerate damaged or diseased cells. Lecithins ensures full and uninterrupted functioning of the brain and the entire nervous system

The use of lecithin is advisable in the treatment of neuroses and neuritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, for injuries and lesions of the nervous system, and for constant physical and mental stress. Reviews about the dietary supplement are only positive; people who have suffered strokes take it in order to fully restore physical and mental health. It is extremely important for children and pregnant women to include in their diet useful substance lecithins.

Women who use this nutritional supplement will experience less painful labor and a healthier and stronger baby.

Vitamins with lecithin have a positive effect on the formation of the brain and nervous system of the baby while still in the womb.

Vitamin complexes for teenagers are invaluable; they improve the growth and development of a child, help them learn to concentrate and develop mental abilities.

The energy value of lecithin is 913 kilocalories per 100 grams of product.

The nutritional supplement is useful for people of any age category: from babies to grandparents.

Lecithin contraindications

Fans of a healthy diet are careful about food additives, so before you start using them, find out what the benefits and harms of the active substances are. Emulsifier harm:

• if you are hypersensitive to lecithin, allergic reactions may occur;
• a food supplement made from can bring both benefits and negative consequences, since it is made from genetically modified raw materials, and the effect of GMOs on the human body has always been negative and unpredictable.

When E322 is consumed in small quantities, it can only bring positive effect. In case of exacerbation of diseases (cholecystitis, pancreatitis), it is necessary to consult with your doctor so that he takes into account the patient’s indications and allows the use of the supplement.

Lecithin in the food and non-food industry

Soybean and sunflower lecithins perform critical functions in preparation and storage food products. They are irreplaceable emulsifiers and... As an emulsifier, E322 is found in baked goods, dairy products, confectionery and chocolate products.

The additive is widely used in the preparation of emulsions for lubricating metal molds and sheets in bakeries. The substance is an excellent antioxidant in food products. To keep it fresh longer, an emulsifier is also added.

In cosmetology you can often find E322 because of its positive properties and a beneficial effect on the skin.

Bakers and confectioners repeatedly say that lecithin is good and in demand because it increases shelf life various products. Its most important property is to prevent baked goods from sticking to baking pans.

The non-industrial sector also needs lecithin due to its functional properties. E322 is widely used to create dietary supplements. The active substance is used as a raw material for the production of solvents and paints. Lecithin is used to feed animals and fertilize plants. It is very popular in medicine and cosmetology. It is even used to make explosives and ink.

Instructions for use of lecithin

You can find this valuable nutritional supplement in the pharmacy; it is sold in special packaging: sometimes it comes in the form of capsules, sometimes as a soluble mixture. The instructions for use will help you choose your own individual dosage, but it is better to use the doctor’s recommendation.

Instructions for a dietary supplement - something that should not be neglected in order to get maximum benefit from the drug.

Recipe delicious cocktail with lecithin: you need to take 1 cup, 1 teaspoon of lecithin, 2 teaspoons. The ingredients are for 1 serving. 3 teaspoons of milk are whipped with lecithin, then the remaining milk is boiled. The liquids should be cooled and combined with honey. Nutritional cocktail ready.

general characteristics and receiving

Additive E322 (the chemical name of the substance is lecithin) is considered one of the most beneficial for the human body. Lecithin belongs to the group of fat-like substances, which include phospholipids (65-75%), triglycerides and small amount etc.

Lecithin was discovered thanks to the efforts of the French chemist Théodore Nicolas Gobley, who in 1845 managed to obtain it from egg yolks(thanks to the source material, the name was given to the group of substances - translated from Greek “lecithin” means “yolk”).

In terms of structure, the food additive belongs to the group of esters of the amino alcohol choline and diglyceride phosphoric acids. The composition of lecithin includes phosphatidylcholine (19-21%), phosphatidylethanolamine (8-20%), inositol-containing phosphatides (20-21%), phosphatidylserine (5.9%). Depending on the source material and method of production, lecithin may contain soybean oil (33-35%), free fatty acids, esters, tocopherols, biological pigments, sterols and sterols (2-5%), carbohydrates (5%).

E322 is in the form of transparent crystals or powder white. When broken down, fatty acids, choline and glycerol are formed.

Natural sources of lecithin are considered egg yolks, meat products, liver, peanuts, vegetable oils, nuts, sunflower seeds, fruits and vegetables.

For commercial purposes, two types of lecithin of different origins are used:

• derived from soybeans. It is produced from refined soybean oil and exposed to low temperatures;
• obtained from sunflower seeds. For this purpose, extraction (extraction using a solvent) from sunflower oil is used.

The first method is more popular. In the human body, lecithin is broken down in the small intestine. This produces higher fatty acids (palmitic, stearic, oleic, arachidonic), trihydric alcohol glycerol, phosphoric acid and choline.

Purpose

In the production of products from cocoa beans, lecithin acts as an antioxidant. Thanks to this, chocolate, biscuits and candies do not lose their attractive appearance, aroma and taste characteristics During a long time.



In food production, the role of lecithin comes down to:

• creating and stabilizing homogeneous emulsions from fats, water and other components. Without lecithin, each substance remains on its own. Thanks to the food additive, you can achieve a uniform consistency;
• preventing oxidative reactions when food components come into contact with air. Thanks to this property, the food additive E322 extends the shelf life of baked goods, muffins, chocolate, sweets, biscuits, etc.;
• preservation (stabilization) of the liquid aggregate state of lipid-based products (without lecithin, such products take the form of crystals);
• preventing baked goods from sticking to pans;
• increasing the efficiency of deep frying by preventing oil splashing.

Similar effects from the use of lecithin in the food industry are due to the fact that the substance acts as a surface-active agent. When mixing different substances, lecithin acts at the boundary between them, reducing the tension of liquids. Thanks to this, an emulsion is obtained from liquid components in the presence of lecithin.

If the recipe for a dish involves the interaction of solid and liquid components, lecithin acts as a dispersant (it wets the surface of the solid component, facilitating its interaction with others).

If solid components need to be mixed, lecithin acts as a lubricant, preventing the substances from sticking to each other.

Impact on the health of the human body: benefits and harms

E322 is one of the few food additives whose beneficial properties outweigh possible negative consequences. Lecithin is a component of almost all cells of the body. For example, in liver cells its content reaches 50%. In the cells of the brain and spinal cord (protective membranes) - 30%.




The positive effects of consuming lecithin are:

• preventing the formation of cholesterol plaques in blood vessels (prevention of atherosclerosis);
• normalization of all metabolic processes (primarily the absorption of lipids);
• increasing the efficiency of mental operations by improving the conduction of impulses along nerve endings;
• prevention and treatment of psoriasis and neurodermatitis (a type of dermatoses that most often affects the scalp);
• acceleration of regeneration (restoration) processes in cells;
• prevention of complications during intrauterine development of the fetus and preparation for childbirth.

The negative impact of the food additive is associated with the use of low-quality starting material (for example, genetically modified soybeans). In some cases, for example, with individual intolerance, lecithin can provoke allergic reactions (itching, redness different sizes, forms and localizations, eating disorders).

Application

The food industry is far from the only industry where the E322 food additive is used. It is often used in:

• chemical industry in the composition of fatty paints and their solvents in the manufacture of vinyl coatings;
• in cosmetology as a component of skin care products;
• in medicine as part of hepatoprotective agents to prevent liver diseases, also for the treatment of psoriasis and neurodermatitis;
• in paper processing, ink production, fertilizers, explosives and pesticides.

Table. The norm for the content of the food additive E322 lecithin in products according to SanPiN 2.3.2.1293-03 dated May 26, 2008

Legislation

The food additive E322 is allowed to be used in the food industry of Russia and Ukraine, as well as in most countries of the world, but in strictly regulated quantities. The regulations concern not only the presence of the additive in a food product, but also its relationship with other substances of similar effect. For example, if the product contains more than one of the following substances:

• lecithins (E322);
• mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids (E471);
• mono- and diglycerides citric acid and mono- and diglycerides of fatty acids esters (E472c);
• mono- and diglycerides of sucrose and fatty acid esters (E473).

The permissible concentration of each of these substances is reduced proportionally.