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EmulsifierINS 322
E322
Lecithin
What you need to know
Lecithin keeps oil and water mixed. It is extracted from soybeans, sunflower seeds or egg yolk and is also sold as a supplement.
It is one of the lowest-concern emulsifiers — a normal part of many whole foods.
Soy-derived lecithin must be declared for allergen reasons.
Where it stands, by region
The same additive can be approved in one country and banned in another. This is the divergence that matters most.
| 🇦🇺AU / NZ | Approved Permitted (FSANZ Food Standards Code). |
| 🇪🇺EU | Approved Permitted (EFSA). |
| 🇺🇸US | Approved Permitted (FDA). |
| 🇨🇦CA | Approved Permitted (Health Canada). |
Health evidence
How settled the science is for each area — not how dangerous. “Unknown” means not enough good studies yet.
Hyperactivity & behaviour
Unknown
Allergy & intolerance
Unknown
Gut microbiome
Unknown
Metabolic effects
Unknown
Carcinogenicity
Unknown
Cardiovascular
Unknown
Phospholipid mixture from soy, sunflower or egg. JECFA ADI 'not specified'.
Synthesis: Natural-derived (soy/sunflower)ADI Not specified (acceptable)