Lecithin granules: the perfect ingredient to increase nutritional claims during functional food production

We all know that a Western diet with an over-reliance on convenience and ultra-processed foodstuffs can play havoc with our health. To meet our daily nutritional requirements, consumers are increasingly turning towards science-backed supplements for additional nutritional support.??

At Novastell, we have significant insight into how lecithin is decreasing in our food supply. It is estimated that a hundred years ago, we took in between 5g to 6g of phospholipids daily, while consumers only average between 3g to 4g today – making supplementation necessary.??

To ensure that we get the requisite amount needed in an easy-to-ingest format, our research and development team has industrialised two distinct types of lecithin granules derived from vegetal origin.??

Traditional soy lecithin, Soycithin G97 IP (Identity Preserved), is a non-GMO ingredient that offers full ingredient traceability while Suncithin G96 is prepared from sunflower lecithin.??

When you look at the chemical structure of lecithin it comprises a complex mixture of phospholipids and polar lipids – and these are available as either a fluid or solid, depending on composition. This offers additional flexibility and application choice during the formulation of food products and drink mixes – making it an ideal choice in your new product development plans.?

But why are phospholipids so important for human health???

As a natural component of oils, lecithin has a long history of use in the food and beverage industry and positions with a stellar range of nutritional properties.??

An essential building block and component of a healthy metabolism, phospholipids are active in the gut and work towards digesting fats but can also assist in the active assimilation of several active and valuable nutrients.??

Phospholipids are also seen as one of the best physiological carriers for nutrients like choline and inositol, and minerals such as phosphorous and unsaturated fatty acids. Additionally, the choline in phosphatidylcholine, a major phospholipid in lecithin, is essential for brain function and liver and kidney metabolism.??

In fact, the liver and kidneys are the two organs that need a constant supply of choline as they cannot store it. The phosphatidylcholine contained in granulated lecithin is the only storage form of choline for these organs.??

Novastell currently offers two different lecithin granules derived from vegetal origin. Traditional soy lecithin, Soycithin G97 IP, is a non-GMO ingredient that offers full traceability, while Suncithin G96 is prepared from sunflower lecithin. This ingredient is also GMO-free and not considered an allergen – making it ideal for clean-label formulations.??

When used during food applications, lecithin granules can be used as a dietetic supplement in salads and dairy products, offering a light vegetal and nutty taste when added.??

It is recommended that a teaspoon (5g) will supply approximately 3g of the daily phospholipid required by the body. This is the quantity we need to compensate for the imbalance in our present food supply with its decreasing phospholipid content. Our research further indicates that a daily intake, taken over a three-month period will result in maintaining increased blood cholesterol and triglycerides.??

Soycithin G97 IP and Suncithin G96 have been authorised to make European labelling and nutritional claims - further strengthening their positioning as functional ingredients during food and beverage processing.??

So do not delay in finding out how these powerhouse and functional ingredients can benefit your formulation journey!??

For more information, contact the Novastell team now at www.novastell.com?