Ingredient · Updated
Soy Lecithin
Found in 104 productsSee all
BrainMD Happy Saffron Plus 
Chocolove Hawaiian Sea Salt Strong Dark Chocolate 
KIND Dark Chocolate Nuts & Sea Salt 
Ritter Sport DARK CHOCOLATE WITH WHOLE HAZELNUTS 
Ghirardelli Intense Dark 72% Cacao Squares 
hagen Diaz’s double Belgian chocolate chip 
Turkey Hill Sinply natural mint Chocolate Chip icecream 
Built Puff Bar What is Soy Lecithin?
Soy lecithin is a yellow-brownish fatty substance derived from soybean oil. It is extracted during the processing of soybean oil and then further processed to separate the lecithin fraction, which is high in phospholipids.
It is used as an emulsifier in many food products such as chocolate, baked goods, and margarine because it helps to blend ingredients that would otherwise separate, like oil and water. While there are some concerns about its origin from soy, there is no strong evidence that soy lecithin affects health adversely when consumed in typical food amounts.
On labels, soy lecithin usually appears in small amounts as an emulsifier, and it is generally considered safe for most people unless one has a soy allergy or sensitivity.
Commonly found in: Chocolate, Baked goods, Margarine, Protein bars, Ice cream
What to watch
- May pose a risk for individuals with soy allergies.
Soy lecithin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food additive.
Research shows soy lecithin is typically safe in food amounts, though some individuals report mild sensitivity.
Soy lecithin is plant-derived and generally accepted as vegan.
Sources: Everything Added to Food in the United States (EAFUS)
Scout's take
Soy lecithin is an emulsifier derived from soybeans, often used to improve texture and shelf life. It is a highly processed ingredient and may contain traces of pesticides and GMOs. While generally recognized as safe, it is not nutritionally beneficial.
The case against
May cause allergic reactions in individuals with soy allergies.
from the analysis of Honey Stinger ORGANIC WAFFLE · echoed in 24 other analysesMay contain traces of soy allergens and is a processed ingredient.
from the analysis of Fiber One 70 Calorie Brownies Chocolate Fudge Snack Bars · echoed in 6 other analysesPotential allergen for individuals sensitive to soy products.
from the analysis of Chocolove Hawaiian Sea Salt Strong Dark Chocolate · echoed in 5 other analysesMay contain soy allergens and is a processed additive.
from the analysis of Thomas' Original English Muffins · echoed in 3 other analysesMay contain traces of soy allergens, which can cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Artesano Bakery Bread · echoed in 1 other analysisThe case for
Improves texture and consistency in food products.
from the analysis of Yasso Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars · echoed in 10 other analysesImproves texture and consistency of processed foods.
from the analysis of THINK THIN, BROWNIE CRUNCH HIGH PROTEIN BAR · echoed in 6 other analysesImproves texture and shelf life of processed foods.
from the analysis of Nabisco CHIPS AHOY! COOKIES - MINI CHEWY 1X3. · echoed in 3 other analysesHelps improve texture and consistency in food products.
from the analysis of Nature's Own HONEY WHEAT ENRICHED BREAD · echoed in 2 other analysesHelps maintain product consistency and texture, improving the eating experience.
from the analysis of Turkey Hill Sinply natural mint Chocolate Chip icecreamMore from Scout's analyses
Industrial emulsifier, typically derived from GMO soy.
from the analysis of Laffy Taffy BananaSoy lecithin is an emulsifier used to improve texture and extend shelf life in processed foods. It is derived from soybeans and may contain traces of allergens. Although generally considered safe, it is a highly processed ingredient with minimal nutritional value.
from the analysis of Good & Gather Milk Chocolate MorselsSoy lecithin is an emulsifier used to improve texture and shelf life in processed foods. It is derived from soybeans and can be highly processed. Some individuals may have concerns about soy allergies or sensitivities.
from the analysis of Pepperidge Farm Farmhouse SOURDOUGH BREADAll 104 products with Soy Lecithin
+ 80 more products in the Scout app
Where Soy Lecithin shows up
- Cookies 14 products
- Protein Bars 13 products
- Bread 11 products
- Candy 10 products
- Snack Bars 8 products
- Ice Cream 8 products
Higher-scoring picks without Soy Lecithin
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Soy Lecithin, scoring 80 or above.
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