Lecithins are also known as phosphatidylcholines, and are examples of phopholipids, or esters of glycerol, where two ester bonds are to fatty acids and the third is to a phosphoric acid derivative. Most commercial lecithin is extracted from soya beans, egg yolks and leguminous seeds. Lecithins play important roles in the transmission of nerve impulses as well as fulfilling other biological functions. They are present in all living cells and are significant constituents of nerve and brain tissues. Lecithins are capable of forming micelles in aqueous solution hence are employed in foods as emulsifiers.| Other names: | polysaccharide complex |
| CAS No: | 9002-18-0 |
| Physical appearance: | white to pale yellow crystalline powder, no odour |
molecular weight polysaccharides which can be used to produce arabinose, galactose, rhamnose and glucuronic acid. Gum arabic is used in food as a thickener, stabiliser, glazing agent and emulsifier, and is readily water-soluble.| Other names: | arabic gum, acacia, acacia gum, acacia syrup, Indian gum |
| CAS No: | 9000-01-5 |
| Physical appearance: | white powder |
| Other information: | May cause weak allergic reaction in some individuals. May act as an irritant. |