Soy lecithin is a food emulsifier that works as a flavor protector or antioxidant. Soy lecithin is dominantly used in ice creams, bread, dietary supplements, and a lot more. But is it safe for gluten allergic people?
Is soy lecithin gluten free? Soy lecithin is gluten free and is entirely made from plant based sources.
But if you have celiac disease, you need to have complete information about the food you’re eating. This article will cover all details about soy lecithin, its gluten status, and its ingredients. So, to not miss out on any crucial information, continue reading.
Table of Contents
Is Soy Lecithin Gluten Free?
Soy lecithi is gluten free because it’s made from soy which is not a gluten grain. Soy is a type of bean or legume that does not belong to the gluten grain family like- wheat, rye, barley, or semolina.
So it’s safe to say soy lecithin is gluten free and won’t cause any gluten reactions. But are all foods that use soy lecithin gluten free? No. Packaged food that adds soy lecithin may add other flavoring or additives which may have gluten. Therefore, just because anything is made with soy lecithin does not mean it’ll also be gluten free.
Also Read:- Is Starburst Gluten Free?
Is Soy Gluten Free?
Soy or soybean is a high plant-based protein source and is gluten free. This high protein legume is not similar to wheat or rye, which are the main source of gluten.
Why Is Soy Not Always Gluten Free?
Soy is used to make a lot of different foods like- soy sauces, soy milk, tofu, oil, and a lot more. Not everything made from soy is always gluten free because makers add other ingredients and preservatives that may contain gluten.
For example, most soy sauce is not gluten free because it contains wheat. Similarly, other items made with soy may also have gluten either as a direct ingredient or as additives or flavorings. So don’t forget to check the ingredient label before you pick any soybean based product.
Is Soy Lecithin Vegan?
Soy lecithin is vegan and made from soy without any other animal byproducts. It’s free from common animal derivatives like- gelatin, egg, milk, yogurt, etc.
Gluten-Free Soy Options You Should Consider
Products made from soy are a healthier and mostly vegan alternative to regular foods. For example, soy milk, tofu, soy yogurt, etc., have made following a gluten free or vegan diet a lot tastier. Here are some of the popular gluten free soy options you should definitely try.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is purely made by grinding soybeans and water. Soy milk is a safe alternative not only for celiacs but also for people with lactose intolerance.
Soy Yogurt
Another gluten free and healthy soy product is soy yogurt. But makers sometimes add flavorings or preservatives which may contain gluten, so don’t forget to check the ingredient label.
Tofu
Tofu or bean curd is a protein rich food product made from soy. It’s a vegan alternative to cottage cheese and is made from dry soybeans soaked in water and then crushed and boiled.
Soy Nuts
Soy nuts are prepared with soaked and baked whole soybeans. Soy nuts are the best snacking option for people following a less calorie and no gluten diet.
Prepare These Amazing Foods At Home Using Soy Lecithin
Soy lecithin is a great kitchen ingredient. You can use this emulsifier for baking, preserving, or as a stabilizing ingredient. Let’s check out two easy recipes you must try with the emulsifier.
1. Vegan Butter With Soy Lecithin
Ingredients
- 1 serving of soy lecithin
- 150ml soy milk
- 1 tbsp soy milk powder
- 120ml sunflower oil
- 2 tbsp yeast
- 200ml coconut oil
- Pinch of salt
Method
Step one
Put all the ingredients in a food processor except coconut oil. Let everything mix well and then add the coconut gradually and allow it to blend with the liquid mix.
Step two
Once everything is well blended, store the butter in a container and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours.
2. Sweet Potato Hummus With Soy Lecithin
Ingredients
- 1 scoop of soy lecithin granules
- 1 cooked sweet potato (medium-sized)
- 30g cooked chickpeas
- 1 tbsp virgin coconut oil
- Lemon juice
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- Sesame seeds
- Pinch of cumin powder, salt, nutmeg, garlic powder, cinnamon powder
Method
Mix everything in a food processor until it turns into a smooth paste. Sprinkle some soy lecithin granules and sesame seeds, and serve.
FAQs
Q: Why is soy sauce not gluten free?
A: Soy sauce is made with crushed wheat and soy, which is why soy sauce isn’t gluten free.
Q: Is Soy lecithin safe for celiacs?
A: Yes, soy lecithin is safe for celiacs as it is gluten free and won’t cause any gluten allergies.
Q: Can people with a soy allergy have soy lecithin?
A: According to most allergists, soy lecithin is safe for people even with gluten allergies, and this emulsifier won’t induce allergic reactions.
Conclusion
Soy lecithin is completely gluten free and celiac safe. But food with soy lecithins like ice creams, bread, infant formulas, and different dairy products may not be gluten free.
The best way to avoid gluten is by checking the ingredient list and picking only the ones with gluten free tags.
