Emulsifierare

Emulsifierare is a term used in colloid science and food technology to denote the practice and study of creating and stabilizing emulsions through emulsifying agents. The concept covers formulation, mechanism, and processing to produce stable oil-in-water or water-in-oil systems.

Mechanism and scope: Emulsifierare involves selecting emulsifiers and co-stabilizers to lower interfacial tension and form a protective layer around droplets. The effectiveness depends on the emulsifier's hydrophilic-lipophilic balance, molecular structure, and interactions with other ingredients.

Common emulsifiers: natural sources such as lecithin (found in egg yolk and soy), milk proteins; semi-synthetic mono- and diglycerides; and synthetic surfactants like polysorbates and sorbitan esters. Blends are often used to optimize stability and texture.

Applications: Emulsifierare methods are central to foods (mayonnaise, dressings, ice cream), cosmetics (creams, lotions), pharmaceuticals (oral suspensions, topical formulations), and industrial products (lubricants, agrochemicals).

Techniques and regulation: Processing includes high-shear mixing, homogenization, and microfluidization. Many emulsifiers are regulated food additives with safety evaluations and labeling requirements; consumers increasingly seek clean-label formulations.

See also: Emulsification, Emulsifier, Pickering emulsion.