Abstract: Provided is a process for removing non-choline phosphatides from a lecithin material to facilitate obtaining a highly purified phosphatidylcholine product which is essentially free of non-choline phosphatides. The product can be obtained efficiently and effectively, even when starting with a raw soybean gum (lecithin).

Abstract: Provided is a process for removing non-choline phosphatides from a lecithin material to facilitate obtaining a highly purified phosphatidylcholine product which is essentially free of non-choline phosphatides. The product can be obtained efficiently and effectively, even when starting with a raw soybean gum (lecithin).

Abstract: A unique and improved emulsifier for water-in-oil emulsions is provided by heating lecithin for a period of time sufficient to altar its composition such that the improved emulsifier is obtained. For example, the lecithin can be heated at a temperature in the range of from about 100.degree. C. to about 250.degree. C. for a period of time ranging from about 15 to about 480 minutes. The resultant thermally altered lecithin exhibits improved emulsification characteristics for water-in-oil emulsions. A water-in-oil emulsion comprised of a continuous oil phase, a discontinuous aqueous phase and the thermally altered lecithin exhibits excellent stability and an improved holding capacity with respect to the discontinuous aqueous phase.

Abstract: A unique and improved emulsifier for water-in-oil emulsions is provided by heating lecithin for a period of time sufficient to alter its composition such that the improved emulsifier is obtained. For example, the lecithin can be heated at a temperature in the range of from about 100.degree. C. to about 250.degree. C. for a period of time ranging from about 15 to about 480 minutes. The resultant thermally altered lecithin exhibits improved emulsification characteristics for water-in-oil emulsions. A water-in-oil emulsion comprised of a continuous oil phase, a discontinuous aqueous phase and the thermally altered lecithin exhibits excellent stability and an improved holding capacity with respect to the discontinuous aqueous phase.