Synthesis and Commercial Preparation of Food Emulsifiers

Abstract

Natural emulsifiers such as casein, egg yolk, and lecithin are extracted and commercially processed for use in foods. Emulsifiers are also chemically or enzymatically synthesized from natural materials. Structural design of emulsifiers may be accomplished by chemical or enzymatic modification of natural materials. Chemical reactions are generally carried out at high temperatures to overcome low mutual solubility of the reactants. Side reactions may cause undesirable byproducts leading to dark colors, as well as odors and off-flavors. Enzymatic modifications can be performed at lower temperatures, but suffer from high costs and problems with solubility. Commercial processes may be either batch or continuous. Batch processes are best suited to a wide product range and smaller batch sizes. Continuous processes are better for a narrow product range and larger scale production. Reactor design is critical for emulsifier production of food emulsifiers having high quality.