What is soy lecithin?

Soy lecithin is a fatty substance that is extracted from soy beans. It is a common food additive that helps oil and water mix, and also works as a lubricant, an anti-foaming agent and a wetting agent. Soy lecithin is also sold as a choline supplement.

The primary purpose of soy lecithin is as an emulsifier in food products. Salad dressings, spreads, chocolate and other fatty processed foods contain soy lecithin to keep the oil from separating from the other ingredients. Non-stick sprays contain soy lecithin as a lubricant, and bakers use soy lecithin on their dough to prevent stickiness. Soy lecithin is high in choline, which improves cholesterol levels, acne and liver function.