E322 Lecithin

What is E322 or Lecithin?

Lecithin (E322) is a natural emulsifier and antioxidant used to stabilize foods and improve texture. It is derived from soybeans, eggs, or sunflower seeds and can be found in chocolates, margarine, and baked goods. Lecithin helps blend ingredients that usually don’t mix well, like oil and water.

Why do I have an intolerance?

Intolerance to lecithin may arise from the source it’s derived from, such as soy or eggs. If you are sensitive to these ingredients, consuming foods with lecithin could cause digestive discomfort, allergic reactions, or skin irritations. Intolerance is often linked to an underlying sensitivity to the base ingredient.

What can I do about it?

If you have an intolerance to lecithin, it’s important to identify the source of the additive (e.g., soy or egg). Reading labels and choosing products made with alternative lecithin sources, like sunflower lecithin, can help. Opting for natural, unprocessed foods without emulsifiers is another way to avoid exposure.