Ingredient · Updated
Lecithin
Found in 17 productsSee all
W3LL People Bio Tint SPF 30 Tinted Moisturizer 
Melaleuca Fair 
W3LL People Lip Butter SPF 15 Tinted Balm 
W3LL People Fresh Dew Snow Mushroom Gel-Cream Moisturizer 
Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32 
O Organics Teething Wafers Banana 
W3LL People Expressionist Brow Pencil 
Kiehl's Since 1851 Creme de Corps Body Lotion with Cocoa Butter What is Lecithin?
Lecithin is a natural emulsifier that's found in egg yolks, soybeans, and sunflower seeds. It is often extracted using mechanical or chemical processes to create a useful additive that helps blend ingredients that don't naturally mix well, like oil and water.
Lecithin is used in a variety of food products, from chocolates to baked goods, to improve texture and extend shelf life. While it is generally recognized as safe by food authorities, it may be derived from soy, which is an allergen for some people. Some research suggests lecithin might have potential benefits for brain and liver health, although the evidence is not conclusive.
When you see lecithin on a label, it's often for its emulsifying properties, which can improve the sensory experience of the product. Be aware of its source if you have a soy allergy or prefer non-GMO products.
Commonly found in: Chocolate, Baked Goods, Margarine, Dressings, Supplements
What to watch
- May trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy.
- Potential source of GMOs if derived from non-organic soy.
Benefits
- Improves texture and stability of food products.
- Some studies suggest potential cognitive and liver health benefits, but evidence is mixed.
Lecithin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for its use as a food additive.
Research shows lecithin might have health benefits, but more studies are needed to confirm its effects.
Lecithin can be plant-derived (from soy or sunflowers) or animal-derived (from eggs), so it's important to check labels.
Sources: FDA's SCOGS Report on Lecithin · Soy Lecithin: Potential Benefits and Risks
Scout's take
Refined emulsifier lecithin (doctrine: 'bad', distinct from seed oils).
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with Lecithin, primarily related to potential sensitivity in rare cases.
from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32There are minimal risks associated with lecithin in cosmetics.
from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )There are minimal risks associated with this ingredient.
from the analysis of Kiehl's Since 1851 Creme de Corps Body Lotion with Cocoa ButterMay cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Samyang Buldak Spicy Chicken Carbonara Ramen NoodlesMay cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Kinder Bueno Hazelnut Chocolate CandyThe case for
Helps maintain texture and consistency in food products.
from the analysis of Kinder Bueno Hazelnut Chocolate Candy · echoed in 1 other analysisIt helps to improve the texture of the product and enhance skin softness.
from the analysis of Kiehl's Since 1851 Creme de Corps Body Lotion with Cocoa ButterIt helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.
from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32It helps to improve product texture and enhance absorption.
from the analysis of The Ordinary - The Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA( / )Improves texture and consistency in food products.
from the analysis of Samyang Buldak Spicy Chicken Carbonara Ramen NoodlesMore from Scout's analyses
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
from the analysis of Cocokind Daily Sunscreen - SPF 32Lecithin is an emulsifier used to blend ingredients that typically do not mix well. It is often derived from soy or sunflower and is highly processed. It may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Samyang Buldak Spicy Chicken Carbonara Ramen NoodlesSources: Sunflower and/or Soy. Emulsifier that may use soy lecithin from bioengineered soybeans. The 'and/or' labeling indicates inconsistent sourcing, and soy lecithin is a processed seed-derived additive.
from the analysis of Quest Protein BarAll 17 products with Lecithin
Where Lecithin shows up
- Protein Powders 3 products
- Sunscreen 2 products
- Skin Care 2 products
- Lip Care 1 product
- Baby Snacks 1 product
- Makeup 1 product
Higher-scoring picks without Lecithin
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Lecithin, scoring 80 or above.
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