lecithin determination (HPLC)
Lecithin is a chemical compound that is non-toxic and tolerated by the human body. It is generally used as a mixer, thickener and insulator. For example, lecithin acts as an emulsifier in chocolate making and prevents the separation of cocoa and cocoa butter from each other. In addition, lecithin is used in the construction of protective layers around the drugs.
Lecithin is commercially generally obtained from soybean. In recent years, lecithin has also been studied in sunflower. It plays a role in regulating lecithin, cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the human body. Lecithin lowers cholesterol levels. The egg contains high levels of lecithin. Lecithin is also obtained from the egg. The expression of lecithin comes from a Greek word for egg yolk.
Lecithin has emollient and antioxidant properties and acts as a binder of special fragrant volatiles in confectionery and ice-cream. Less than 1 percent used in chocolate production, lecithin serves to keep the chocolate in the desired water content.
In food products where lecithin is generally used, it reduces the waste and strengthens the texture of the food. It also improves the stability of the food product with its emulsifying properties. Besides, it gives the product additional nutritional value and prolongs the storage time of the products. Lecithin is also an inexpensive substance.
While the determination of fat in the milk using ether, some substances are present in the extract after the ether has been evaporated, along with the milk fat. These include lecithin. Lecithins are similar in structure to oils.
In authorized laboratories, lecithin determination studies are carried out by using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) device within the scope of chemical tests. The HPLC method is highly sensitive and gives precise results in the separation of non-volatile or easily degradable compounds at temperature. These studies comply with the standards published by national and international organizations and test methods accepted worldwide.