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Lecithin

Also known as: E322i, E322

Low concern

Lecithins (E322) are naturally occurring phospholipids approved as emulsifiers. EFSA's 2017 re-evaluation concluded there is no safety concern at reported uses and no need for a numerical ADI.

Found in

6,764 products

E-number

E322

Type

antioxidant, emulsifier

What it is

Lecithin (E322), a mixture of phospholipids derived from soybeans, sunflower, eggs, or other sources.

Emulsifier, antioxidant, dispersing agent.

Why it's flagged

Soy lecithin may contain trace soy allergens
Egg lecithin requires egg allergen labeling

What regulators actually say

"The Panel concluded that there was no need for a numerical ADI for lecithins (E 322) and that there was no safety concern for the general population from more than 1 year of age."

EFSA Journal - Re-evaluation of lecithins (E 322) — efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com

"Lecithin is GRAS as a direct human food ingredient."

21 CFR 184.1400 Lecithin — ecfr.gov

Regulatory status

United States — FDA

GRAS (21 CFR 184.1400); permitted as emulsifier.

European Union — EFSA

Authorised E322; no safety concern at reported uses (EFSA 2017).

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