What is Lecithin？
Lecithin, also known as a-phosphatidylcholine, is an emulsifier or lubricating nutrient that occurs naturally in a variety of foods, including soybeans and sunflower seeds. It was first isolated in 1845 by French chemist and pharmacist Théodore Gobley and is used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and paint industries.
Application of Lecithin in the Food Industry
Lecithin is a versatile additive and preservative used in the manufacture of chocolate, margarine, mayonnaise, and baked and ready-to-eat products due to its phospholipid properties. Lecithins enhance water dispersibility, smooth the texture and quality of products, and act as antioxidants and flavor protectors. Bakers prefer sunflower lecithin because it is easier to use than soy lecithin, has a lower risk of allergies, and is easier to store.
Lecithin Applications in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Both soy and sunflower lecithin supplements have been shown to lower cholesterol, clear blocked or clogged milk ducts that lead to mastitis in breastfeeding women, and relieve ulcerative colitis. Clinical studies have also shown that lecithin is beneficial in treating acne and inflammation, and improving liver function and cardiovascular health.
Sunflower lecithin contains phospholipids that improve cognitive functions such as memory, perception, learning, decision-making, and attention. Soy lecithin can be used to lower blood pressure, boost immunity, and relieve stress and anxiety.
Lecithin Applications in the Cosmetic Industry
Lecithin is used as a skin conditioning agent and suspending agent for rinse-off and leave-on cosmetics in a large number of cosmetic formulations because it has been shown to be non-toxic or mutagenic and non-irritating to human skin. Both sunflower and soy lecithin contain antioxidant properties that protect cells from oxidative damage, thereby slowing aging and keeping skin free of wrinkles and fine lines.
Lecithin Applications in the Coatings Industry
Soy lecithin has a variety of functions in the manufacture of coating products. It can be used as a viscosity reducer, binder and abrasive, emulsifier and corrosion inhibitor, and improves the spreadability of coatings.
Differences Between Sunflower and Soy Lecithin
While both soy and sunflower lecithin are the product of separating the oil from the gum, the main difference is that soy lecithin extraction requires chemicals such as acetone and hexane, while sunflower lecithin is extracted naturally through cold pressing. Cold pressing involves dehydrating the sunflower, which separates the gum. oil and solids.
Soy lecithin is hydrophilic, or water-loving, and tends to clump when exposed to air; therefore, sunflower lecithin is considered a preferred choice by bakers because it is easier to use and store. Sunflower lecithin is also considered a healthier alternative, as soy is an allergen and is more likely to be genetically modified.
Summary
Lecithin is an emulsifier used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and paint industries. Sunflower lecithin appears to be a healthier choice because, unlike soy lecithin, it is extracted through cold pressing rather than solvents, is less likely to cause allergic reactions, does not stimulate estrogen production, and is easier to store.
FAQ
Can sunflower lecithin replace soy lecithin?
As an emulsifier in cooking, sunflower lecithin can replace soy lecithin in a 1:1 ratio. Some people believe that sunflower lecithin should replace soy lecithin because it is non-GMO, does not stimulate estrogen production, and is not a known allergen.
Which form of lecithin is best?
Medical supplements are most commonly made with soy lecithin; however, because soy lecithin stimulates estrogen production, it can cause hormonal imbalances that can affect a woman's reproductive system. Therefore, for women, sunflower lecithin is best. Chefs and bakers may also choose sunflower lecithin because using soy lecithin excludes those who are allergic to soy products from consuming the product, and soy lecithin is more difficult to store due to its hydrophilic, or water-loving, nature.
What is the difference between sunflower and soy lecithin?
The difference between soy lecithin and sunflower lecithin is the extraction process used. Sunflower lecithin is healthier because it is extracted by cold pressing rather than solvents and is non-GMO. Soy lecithin powder is also more likely to clump, and some people may be allergic to products that use soy lecithin as an emulsifier, making sunflower lecithin a better choice for the food and pharmaceutical industries.
What does sunflower lecithin do for you?
Sunflower lecithin strengthens the nervous system by protecting the myelin sheath, which helps transmit nerve impulses from the brain and spinal cord to the body. Consuming sunflower lecithin is thought to improve nervous system health and reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
