All SOLEC™ lecithins are created through the
same manufacturing process, which yields standard grade fluid lecithin. Many forms are further refined to deliver unique functionality.
Standard grade fluid lecithin is the output of
basic lecithin processing. These stable fluid blends of phospholipids and soybean oil are used for a variety of applications.
Refined value-added lecithins have been further modified by processing standard grade lecithin to produce flavorless, low viscosity lecithins. Widely used in the food industry for
spray release, they also are used as dispersants,
emulsifiers and stabilizers.
Reacted value-added lecithins are created by further processing standard grade lecithins. This process can create heat resistant and water dispersible lecithins.
De-oiled lecithins are created by further processing standard grade fluid lecithins, creating an essentially oil-free powder or granular form. They are water dispersible, oil soluble and easy to measure and handle without pumps or other liquid handling equipment. As additives, de-oiled lecithins serve as emulsifiers, provide lubrication during processing and improve shelf-life, texture and spreadability.
Available in liquid, powder and granular form, these specialty lecithins provide a healthy way to get choline into the diet. Choline, chemically similar to the B vitamins, is needed for many basic functions, including normal functioning of all cells, liver metabolism and the transportation of nutrients throughout the body. Although choline is produced within the body, production is not adequate to meet needs, so choline must be consumed in the diet. Lecithin provides a time-release form of choline, meaning higher levels of choline stay in the blood stream for longer periods of time.
SOLEC™ PC soy lecithins allow for two label claims to be made, depending on amount used.
- Good Source of Choline: Minimum 55 mg choline per serving (RACC — reference amount customarily consumed)
- Excellent Source of Choline: Minimum 110 mg choline per serving
Solae has developed a line of sunflower lecithins with a variety of applications, including emulsification, instantizing, release and baking. Our sunflower lecithin is highly refined and works as well in many applications as its soy counterpart.
Two key raw material designations are available on many Solae soy lecithins. The Tested Negative (TN) designation signifies a product has tested negative for genetic modification by an independent laboratory using the PCR Roundup Ready method. The Identity Preserved (IP) designation is used on products that meet Solae's Identity Preservation Product Commitment. This commitment means the soybeans are produced without the aid of biotechnology, with documented identity preservation at each stage of production, and independent third-party organizations are utilized to complete certification of compliance.
For more information about the various types of SOLEC™ lecithins and to understand which lecithin may be best for you, please contact us.