Lecitiiinejä

Lecitiiinejä refers to lecithins, which are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in plant and animal tissues. Chemically, lecithins are a type of phospholipid, characterized by a glycerol backbone with two fatty acids and a phosphate group attached. The phosphate group is further linked to a choline molecule, though other heads like ethanolamine or inositol can also be present, leading to different types of phospholipids.

These compounds play a crucial role in biological membranes, forming the basic structure of cell membranes due to their amphipathic nature, meaning they have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) parts. This property allows them to form bilayers in aqueous environments, which is fundamental to cell integrity.

Lecithins are widely used in the food industry as emulsifiers, stabilizers, and thickening agents. They help blend ingredients that would otherwise separate, such as oil and water in mayonnaise or chocolate. Soy lecithin and sunflower lecithin are common sources used in various food products. Beyond food, lecithins are also found in dietary supplements, often marketed for their potential benefits to brain health and liver function, attributed to the choline component. In industrial applications, they can be used in paints, coatings, and cosmetics.