Is there a clean label emulsifier?
There are a lot of emulsifiers out there. All have their different strengths and shortcomings. But what our industry needs now is a clean label one—lecithin. It’s one of the most common emulsifiers used in the baking industry and it's a versatile one.
Your lecithin source matters
Lecithin is found naturally in many foods, with the most common sources being eggs and soybeans. This is why it works for clean label. However, concern of GMOs has made many bakers search for alternative sources. Plant-based lecithin, such as sunflower, is a popular choice.
The type you use matters too
Lecithin comes in liquid (fluid) and powdered (de-oiled) form. The hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) is intermediate and ranges depending on the type:
- 3-4 for native fluid lecithin
- 7-8 for de-oiled lecithin
- 8- >10 for modified lecithin
This balance allows it to stabilize oil and water or water and oil emulsions and air bubbles in batters and creams.
How is lecithin made? Find out!
Science, bringing things together naturally.
