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Ingredient Guide

🇦🇺 Lecithin on Food Labels in Australia

Lecithin is permitted with proper declaration in Australia & New Zealand: declare as "soy lecithin (322) or sunflower lecithin (322)" in the ingredient list.

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What the Rule Is

Natural emulsifier derived from soy, sunflower, or egg, used widely in chocolate, bread, and margarine. In Australia & New Zealand, Lecithin is regulated under Food Standards Code as a food emulsifier. FSANZ: soy and egg are major allergens. Source of lecithin must be identified if allergenic. Code number required.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "soy lecithin (322) or sunflower lecithin (322)" in the ingredient list
  • Declare with functional class: "emulsifier" and E-number E322
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Incorrect or missing declaration name — must use "soy lecithin (322) or sunflower lecithin (322)"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Lecithin
  • Omitting the E-number E322 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Lecithin content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"emulsifier: soy lecithin (322) or sunflower lecithin (322)"
"soy lecithin (322) or sunflower lecithin (322)" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... soy lecithin (322) or sunflower lecithin (322) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (Sunflower lecithin, Egg lecithin) without the approved declaration name
Ingredient list with "Lecithin" without functional class or E-number
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Lecithin and all its common names (Soy lecithin, Sunflower lecithin, Egg lecithin, E322) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and proper functional class labeling under Australia rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Lecithin be declared on food labels in Australia?

Declare as "soy lecithin (322) or sunflower lecithin (322)" in the ingredient list. FSANZ: soy and egg are major allergens. Source of lecithin must be identified if allergenic. Code number required.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Lecithin?

Lecithin may appear under the following names: Soy lecithin, Sunflower lecithin, Egg lecithin, E322, Phosphatidylcholine. Common hidden sources include: Chocolate, Margarine, Bread, Instant noodles, Infant formula, Biscuits, Sauces.

Is Lecithin banned or restricted in any market?

Lecithin is permitted in all major markets with proper declaration.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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