June 2024 - Sunflower lecithin delivers excellent performance in a wide range of food applications, offering the same benefits as lecithins from other botanical sources. It also allows food manufacturers to meet growing consumer demand for clean label products. Two years ago, events in Eastern Europe reduced the supply of sunflower lecithin, but recent production increases across Europe have once again made it a viable alternative to soybean lecithin.
Unlike soybean lecithin, sunflower lecithin is not considered an allergen so it isn't subject to the EU's labeling regulations related to allergens. Sunflower-based products also have a healthy image amongst consumers. In contrast, soybean products have a more complicated reputation due to concerns about allergens and GMO varieties.
Bunge produces sunflower lecithin in Central Europe, far from events in Eastern Europe. We source sunflower seeds from growers in Hungary and Austria and then process them at our own facilities in Hungary. Manufacturing sunflower lecithin close to our customers results in shorter lead times and a lower carbon footprint due to reduced transportation. And because we control every stage of the supply chain from raw materials to finished product, we can guarantee an uninterrupted supply of high-quality sunflower lecithin.
Sunflower lecithin is highly versatile making it ideal for a variety of applications. It's particularly suited to light-colored, mild-tasting products like white chocolate, white coatings and lecithinated instant powders. In most applications, it can be used as a 1:1 replacement for soybean lecithin, depending on product formulation and processing. Our experts are available to help food producers adjust their recipes and optimize results.
The ability to incorporate sunflower lecithin in your recipes not only allows you to benefit from the favorable market prices currently on offer, it also means you can switch between lecithin varieties more quickly if supply chain conditions or price levels evolve.
Contact our recipe expert for support on implementing this flexibility and secure your supply.
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