VL#140 Lecithin Capsules & VL#152 Soy Lecithin Granules

The term "lecithin" is the commercial or popular name for a mixture of naturally occurring compounds called phosphatides or phospholipids. The principle components of this natural mixture are phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine, and phosphatidyl inositol. Phospholipids are a natural constituent of cells in the human body. They have roles in supporting a healthy nervous system and are found in the myelin sheath, which is a fatty protective covering for the nerves. The average diet contains about 5 to 10 grams of lecithin and about 400 to 900 mg of choline daily. Currently, there is no RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance), however choline, a constituent of lecithin, is considered an essential nutrient.

Areas of research include evaluating lecithin's role in memory function and lecithin as a support factor for weight management. Whether lecithin supplements will contribute to reducing serum cholesterol is still controversial. Lecithin is found in egg yolks, legumes, liver, nuts, whole wheat, vegetable oils, and soybeans. It is also a source of polyunsaturated fat.

The NNFA (National Nutritional Foods Association) Standard Committee has adopted the Food Chemicals Codex III Description and Specifications as an acceptable standard for lecithin (p. 166 F.C.C. III) and the following is recommended:

DRY or OIL FREE LECITHIN should contain minimum 90% phosphatides.
LIQUID and/or ENCAPSULATED LECITHIN should contain minimum 50% phosphatides.

As you can see, our two products meet these recommendations.

1) ALL NATURAL SOY LECITHIN GRANULES (Nutty Flavor) 97-99% Phosphatides
2) LECITHIN 1200 mg SOYA LECITHIN CAPSULES 60% Phosphatides

The soy lecithin granules are a premium deoiled soybean lecithin with no additives, fillers, or flow agents. It is characterized by its high phospholipid concentration, low residual oil content, and superior aroma and flavor profile. The % phosphatides are higher in the granules because it is more concentrated from being dried and deoiled. It takes approximately 10 lecithin capsules to equal 1 tablespoon of the lecithin granules based on the following:

Now you may ask why would anyone want to take the capsules if the granules are more potent? Personal preference! A person may select desired potency based on dietary habits as well as convenience. Some find it easier to carry around capsules and take them throughout the day and some may or may not like the taste or mouth feel of the granules. There are many reasons people may choose one over the other, but if the stores have the facts they will be better able to help the consumer choose a product that will best suit their needs.

For a quick and easy reference, I highly recommend placing this information in your catalogue (Specialty & Misc. section.) I've been asked these questions a couple of times and one day someone may ask you!