Hexane is a byproduct of petrochemical refining.
It is a neurotoxin and hazardous air pollutant. Soybean, and other oilseed processors use it as a solvent—a cheap and efficient way of extracting oil.
The prohibition of hexane in the processing of organic foods, contrasting with its widespread use in non-organic “natural” foods, is a perfect example of the importance of the organic label. Organic foods provide a government-regulated, third-party-certified refuge from foods produced and processed with toxins and potentially dangerous chemicals. Federal standards for organic foods are created and enforced by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP).
Some companies tout their products as RAW, NATURAL or ALL NATURAL, however fail to inform the consumer about the use of hexane or other chemical solvents. A truly “raw” lecithin must be free from chemical solvents (such as hexane and acetone). Always ask your lecithin supplier for documentation to support their claim!
To assist consumers in making informed purchasing decisions we have committed to a line of hexane-free sunflower lecithin supplements, which include 100% Natural Capsules, All Natural Liquid Sunflower Lecithin, 100% Certified Organic Liquid Sunflower Lecithin, Standard Liquid Sunflower Lecithin and Deoiled Sunflower Lecithin Powder available at lekithos.com.