What is E322? Lecithins Explained
As an Amazon Associate and AWIN affiliate partner we earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Disclosure ›
E322 is Lecithins — a natural emulsifier most often derived from soya or sunflower seeds, essential to making chocolate smooth.
What is E322 (Lecithins)?
E322 is Lecithins, a food additive classified as a emulsifier that keep oil and water mixed and improve texture. A natural emulsifier most often derived from soya or sunflower seeds, essential to making chocolate smooth. You'll find it in bread, margarine and spreads, chocolate and many other packaged foods. Lecithins is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E322 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E322 found?
E322 (Lecithins) is found in bread, margarine and spreads, chocolate, ice cream, salad dressings, mayonnaise.
- bread
- margarine and spreads
- chocolate
- ice cream
- salad dressings
- mayonnaise
Also known as: Lecithin · Soya Lecithin · Sunflower Lecithin
Is E322 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E322 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Lecithins to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Lecithins — status Safe.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E322. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E322
grass-fed additive-free biltong
MORiSH Air-Dried Biltong
Looking for snacks where you know exactly what’s in them? MORiSH air-dried steak biltong is grass-fed, no added sugar, and just three ingredients.
Circle DNA Premium Test
Find out how your body responds to foods and additives — nutrition, sensitivities and 500+ reports from one at-home DNA test.
E322 FAQs
What is E322 in food?
E322 is Lecithins — a natural emulsifier most often derived from soya or sunflower seeds, essential to making chocolate smooth.
Is E322 safe to eat?
EFSA has reviewed E322 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Lecithins to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E322 vegan?
E322 (Lecithins) may or may not be vegan — it depends on the source used by the manufacturer.
Is E322 halal?
E322 (Lecithins) is halal. It is derived from soya, sunflower or egg, which involves no haram sources.
Related Emulsifiers additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA