lecithin (redirected from E322)

lecithin

Any of a class of phospholipids (also called phosphatidyl cholines) important in cell structure and metabolism. They are composed of phosphate, choline, glycerol (as the ester), and two fatty acids. Various fatty acids pairs distinguish the various lecithins. Commercial lecithin, a wetting and emulsifying agent used in animal feeds, baking products and mixes, chocolate, cosmetics and soap, insecticides, paint, and plastics, is a mixture of lecithins and other phospholipids in an edible oil.

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lecithin

Biochem any of a group of phospholipids that are found in many plant and animal tissues, esp egg yolk: used in making candles, cosmetics, and inks, and as an emulsifier and stabilizer in foods (E322)

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lecithin [′les·ə·thən]

(biochemistry)

Any of a group of phospholipids having the general composition CH₂OR₁·CHOR₂·CH₂OPO₂OHR₃, in which R₁and R₂are fatty acids and R₃is choline, and with emulsifying, wetting, and antioxidant properties.

(materials)

A mixture of phosphatides and oil obtained by drying the separate gums from the degumming of soybean oil; consists of the phosphatides (lecithin), cephalin, other fatlike phosphorus-containing compounds, and 30-35% entrained soybean oil; may be treated to produce more refined grades; used in foods, cosmetics, and paints. Also known as commercial lecithin; crude lecithin; soybean lecithin; soy lecithin.

A waxy mixture of phosphatides obtained by refining commercial lecithin to remove the soybean oil and other materials; used in pharmaceuticals. Also known as refined lecithin.