What is an emulsifier?
An emulsifier is a type of food additive. (1, 2)
An emulsifier is also known as a emulgent. (2)
What do emulsifiers do?
help keep different ingredients within foods together (2)
prevents ingredients from separating and therefore maintain the texture, taste, and appearance of foods. (2)
What are types of emulsifiers?
natural emulsifiers
soy lecithin
sunflower lecithin
guar gum
carrageenan
pectin
gelatin
agar agar
starch
chitosan
PGE
PGMS
CMC
AMP
PCPR
monoglycerides
What may contain emulsifiers?
baked goods (2)
dairy products (2)
nut butters (2)
margarines (2)
ice cream (2)
sauces (2)
salad dressings (2)
mayonnaise (2)
creamy sauces (2)
processed meats like hot dogs (2)
bottled coconut or almond milk (2)
soups (2)
fiber supplements (2)
some yogurts (2)
chocolate (2)
peanut butter (2)
frostings, cakes, and other boxes deserts (2)
baked products like cookies (2)
crackers and some breads (2)
How are emulsifiers produced?
Some are derived naturally from foods, such as eggs or seeds. (2)
Others are man-made. (2)
Emulsifiers can be derived from plants or animals, or made synthetically. (2)
Resources
1. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2020/01/29/processed-vs-ultra-processed-food-and-why-it-matters-to-your-health
2. https://draxe.com/nutrition/what-is-an-emulsifier-uses-risks-of-emulsifiers-in-foods/
