Lecithin is typically used as a food emulsifier. It is a complex mixture of phospholipids, glycolipids, carbohydrates, and in some cases, triglycerides. Phospholipids are the "active ingredients" of all lecithins, both from a technological and a functional perspective.

Lecithin, meeting the specifications listed in the Food Chemicals Codex (FCC), has been affirmed as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. FDA for use as a direct food additive at levels consistent with GMP.  Lecithin is also an approved food additive in Canada when used in accordance with the Canadian Food and Drug Regulations.  In the EU, lecithin (E322) is an approved food additive as per the European Parliament and Council Directive No 95/2/EC of 20 February 1995 on food additives other than colors and sweeteners.  Lecithin is also recognized as a safe food additive for use as an antioxidant and emulsifier by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA).

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