Lecithins
Applications and brand names
Main applications
Thanks to its technological and nutritional properties, lecithin today has a well-established place in the food industry.
Lecithin provides the invisible finishing touch that is reflected in the quality and excellence of so many foods. Examples include the smoothness of chocolate, the fine texture of bread and the spreading properties of margarine. But the food industry is only one of many application areas for lecithin. It is also used in nutritional supplements and pharmaceuticals and in animal feeds, cosmetics and the biotechnology industry.
Traditionally the key food applications for lecithin have been:
- Chocolate and confectionery
- Margarine and spreads
- Bakery
- Beverage (powdered / instant)
With the development of more specialized and tailored qualities through various technologies the use of lecithin is growing in food segments such as:
- Convenience food
- Processed meats
- Ice cream
The nutritional properties of lecithin have also begun to attract attention the last decennia. In the human body lecithin is involved in fat emulsification in the intestine, required for an optimal fat absorption. Lecithin is a good source of choline, which plays an essential role in supporting the nervous system, the liver and other metabolic functions.
Brand names
Cargill offers the most extensive range of lecithin products for all types of applications.
Type of lecithin |
Brand names |
Fluid lecithin |
Topcithin™, Leciprime™, Lecisoy™, Chocotop™ |
Tailored fluid lecithin |
Emulfluid™ range |
De-oiled lecithin |
Emulpur™, Lecigran™, Emultop™, Lecimulthin™ |
Selected / fractionated de-oiled lecithin |
Metarin™ |
In order to reflect the food safety and quality requirements of our customers, Cargill’s branded fluid, de-oiled and fractionated lecithin products are classified in a unique quality system of four major grades, which guarantee quality and food safety according to the requirements of the individual final application.
Partners in success
In the Cargill lecithin business we take the time to understand your specific needs in order to provide solutions, not just products. Worldwide customers recognize this and benefit from our:
- Depth of knowledge in lecithin raw materials and product processing
- Advanced testing and production facilities
- Unrivalled applications expertise
- Identity preserved product portfolio
- Regulatory and food law assistance
- Conventional (non-GM) lecithin
This will help to differentiate you from your competitors. Helping your business succeed is our primary goal.