New lecithin certification launched

A non-genetically modified (GM) certification system for sunflower lecithin destined for the food sector has been launched by Cert ID Europe.

The system is the first of its kind and features polymerase chain reaction testing protocols specifically to detect the cross-contamination of soy in sunflower lecithin destined for use in products such as chocolate, other confectionery and baked goods.

Manufacturers had tried to replace large volumes of soy lecithin from their products over the past two years to avoid GM issues, said Richard Werran, md of Cert ID Europe.