What Is Fractionated Lecithin?

Fractionated lecithin is a phospholipid profile modified form with standard natural lecithin as start material this can be based on Sunflower, Soybean  or Rapeseed as origin. Standard lecithin is a mix of phospholipids, triglycerides, glycolipids, and other minor compounds. It works well as a natural emulsifier. In our fractionation process separates lecithin into two parts:

  1. The top part, becomes our PC enriched product which is high in active phospholipids like PC, and PI. This specific fraction has stronger emulsifying and dispersing properties, especially in water-based systems.
  2. The other more PE-rich fraction part, contains less polar phospholipids, tends to be more oil soluble and better usable in high fat applications.

At SD Guthrie International Specialty Ingredients, we produce quality fractionated lecithin. We separate this into top (PC enriched) and PE-rich (PC depleted) Fractions. Both have specific roles in formulations, such as improved performance, clarity, and stability.

General Benefits of Using Fractionated Lecithin

  • Enhanced emulsion stability
  • Improved mouthfeel in food and beverages
  • Increased dispersibility in powders
  • Boosted bioavailability in nutraceuticals
  • Clean label options with non-GMO sunflower lecithin
A Decision Guide for Choosing Top vs. PE-rich/PC-depleted Fraction
Top Fraction (PC enriched)

IF YOU NEED...

  • ✔️ Aroma Retention
  • ✔️ Effective Encapsulation
  • ✔️ Emulsification with Minimal Impact
  • ✔️ Fast Absorption in Light Formulations
  • ✔️ Light Odor and Neutral Flavor
  • ✔️ Minimal Impact on Texture
  • ✔️ Probiotic and Active Ingredient Encapsulation
PE-rich (PC depleted) Fraction

IF YOU NEED...

  • ✔️ Bioactive phospholipids
  • ✔️ Functional emulsification
  • ✔️ Heat Resistance
  • ✔️ Hydration, dispersion
  • ✔️ Improved Texture in Baked Goods
  • ✔️ Rich, Creamy Texture
  • ✔️ Stable Emulsions for Fatty Products
  • ✔️ Thick, Opaque Appearance

CHOOSE...

Top Fraction (PC enriched)

  • Provides high transparency,
  • Minimal impact on the flavor profile
  • Efficiently encapsulates and preserves delicate aromas
  • Smooth texture without altering consistency
  • Prolongs the shelf life of active compounds

CHOOSE...

PE-rich (PC depleted) Fraction

  • Enhances texture
  • Making products creamier and more stable
  • Provides a rich, opaque look
  • Enhances the mouthfeel and structure
  • Maintains stability at higher temperatures without degradation

Ideal for oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions

Ideal for water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions

KeKey Differences Between Top (PC enriched & PE-rich (PC depleted) Fraction)

Phospholipid Type PE-rich (PC depleted) Fraction (%) Top Fraction (PC enriched) (%)
Phosphatidylcholine (PC) 2 - 10% 20 - 35%
Phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) < 5% 15 - 25%
Phosphatidylinositol (PI) < 3% 10 - 20%
  • Top Fraction (PC enriched): Light in color, oil-like, and low in odor. Used in cosmetic oils, softgels, and premium lipid systems.
  • PE-rich Fraction (PC depleted): Emulsifier-rich and functionally active. Ideal for beverages, supplements, and dispersions.

How Do These Fractions Behave Differently?

The PC-depleted/PE-enriched contains more lipophilic (oil-loving) substances. This means it blends seamlessly into fats and oils without introducing cloudiness or instability. It behaves more like a neutral lipid than a functional emulsifier. This makes it perfect for:

  • Creating clear oil-based solutions. For example, in a cosmetic face oil, the top fraction dissolves 100% into the base oils without cloudiness. This gives the product a crystal-clear appearance.
  • Reducing unwanted flavor or odor interference. For instance, in a nutritional oil blend, the top fraction contributes minimal taste and smell. This preserves the product's clean sensory profile.
  • Enhancing lipid texture without over-thickening. For example, in a softgel capsule, the top fraction improves the smoothness. Also, it helps the consistency of the fill material without increasing viscosity.
  • Offering subtle functional effects: it modifies texture and miscibility. But it doesn't drive emulsification or hydration on its own. For instance, in a body oil, it helps mix different oils together smoothly without using an emulsifier. So the final product still feels and looks like a pure oil without any creaminess or thickness.

The Top Fraction (PC enriched) is highly amphiphilic (both water- and oil-attracted). Which gives it powerful emulsifying and dispersing properties. It behaves like an active agent in systems where stabilization, hydration, or bioavailability is needed. It tends to:

  • Bind water and oil phases effectively. For instance, in a dairy-free creamer, this fraction ensures that the oil and water stay blended. This prevents separation and delivers a fluid, uniform product every time.
  • Improve suspension of particles in liquids. An example is the use in a powdered beverage mix. The lecithin helps keep cocoa or protein particles evenly distributed in the drink. This prevents them from settling at the bottom.
  • Deliver phospholipid-related health or performance benefits. For instance, in a dietary supplement, lecithin provides phosphatidylcholine. This supports brain and liver health. So, it's a functional ingredient with physiological benefits beyond formulation.
  • Produce a stronger functional effect: it plays a more active role by helping to mix ingredients. This keeps the mix stable and shapes how the final product feels and performs. For example, in a ready-to-drink protein shake, the lecithin helps prevent sedimentation. But also it keeps the protein evenly distributed. This gives the drink a smoother, creamier texture throughout its shelf life.

Applications Across Industries for Fractionated Lecithin

Industry & Application Best Fit Key Benefit
Food & Beverage
Dairy alternatives PE-rich Fraction Improves emulsification and suspension
Ready-to-drink beverages PE-rich Fraction Enhances stability and mouthfeel
Probiotic yogurts Top Fraction Better encapsulation and aroma retention
Chocolates and coatings Top Fraction Adds smooth texture without off-notes. Reduce cocoa butter in 7 % in black chocolate.
Nutraceuticals
Liposomal delivery systems PE-rich Fraction Increases bioavailability of active ingredients
Softgel formulations Top Fraction Improves oil-phase clarity and consistency
Bioavailability enhancers PE-rich Fraction Delivers phospholipids for absorption support
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Oil cleansers and serums Top Fraction Light texture, minimal odor, enhances spreadability
Creams and emulsions PE-rich Fraction Supports emulsion stability and hydration
Fragrance carriers Top Fraction Odorless, stable, and compatible with oils
Technical Uses
Lubricants PE-rich Fraction Enhances slip and reduces friction
Paint dispersants Top Fraction Improves pigment dispersion and suspension
Feed additives Top Fraction Provides functional emulsification and bioavailability

Why Is the Top Fraction More Expensive?

  1. Low Yield: Only 15-30% of crude lecithin becomes top fraction. That means you need a lot of raw material to produce a small amount of usable product.
  2. High Purity Requirements: The top fraction must be light in color, low in odor, and chemically stable. Especially for sensitive applications like cosmetics or nutraceuticals. Achieving this level of refinement adds cost.
  3. Complex Processing: Fractionation isn't simple. It involves:
    • Solvent extraction
    • Careful phase separation
    • Additional quality checks and thoroughly analytical testing during production
    • Solvent recovery and drying under vacuum. Each step adds time, equipment use, and energy.
  4. Specialized Demand: The top fraction is used in high-end or niche formulations. Performance and appearance play a valuable role. It's a specialty product, not a commodity, and that’s reflected in the price. Ideal for oil-based systems like cosmetic serums, nutritional oils, or flavor carriers. In these products, cloudiness or odor is often a problem.

Request a Sample or Talk to an Expert

If you would like to see how fractionated lecithin can improve your formulation? Contact us today to request a sample or schedule a consultation. SD Guthrie International Specialty Ingredients—Your partner in high-performance fractionated lecithin solutions.