EMULSIFIER Meaning and
Definition
-
An emulsifier, often referred to as an emulsifying agent, is a substance or compound commonly used in the food and cosmetic industries to stabilize and blend two immiscible liquids or substances that would usually separate, such as oil and water. It functions by reducing the surface tension between the two substances, allowing them to mix and form a stable homogenous emulsion.
Emulsifiers work by having a hydrophilic (water-loving) part that interacts with water and a lipophilic (oil-loving) part that interacts with oil or fat. This dual nature allows the emulsifier to form a stable interface between the two immiscible substances, creating a uniform and visually appealing product. By creating and maintaining the emulsion, emulsifiers prevent the separation of oil and water that would lead to an undesirable appearance and texture.
Emulsifiers have many applications in various food products, including baked goods, salad dressings, sauces, and ice creams. In cosmetics, they are found in creams, lotions, and makeup, ensuring a consistent texture and appearance. Additionally, emulsifiers can improve shelf life, reduce oil splattering when frying, and enhance the overall sensory experience of the final product.
Some common emulsifiers include lecithins, mono- and diglycerides, polysorbates, soy protein isolates, and sodium stearoyl lactylate. These additives are carefully regulated and undergo rigorous safety assessments to ensure they pose no harm to human health. Emulsifiers play a crucial role in the formulation of an array of consumer products, providing stability, texture, and an attractive appearance.
-
An agent, such as gum arabic or the yolk of an egg, used to make an emulsion of a fixed oil.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Top Common Misspellings for EMULSIFIER *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for EMULSIFIER
- wmulsifier
- smulsifier
- dmulsifier
- rmulsifier
- 4mulsifier
- 3mulsifier
- enulsifier
- ekulsifier
- ejulsifier
- emylsifier
- emhlsifier
- emjlsifier
- emilsifier
- em8lsifier
- em7lsifier
- emuksifier
- emulifier
- emulisfier
- emoulsifier
- emslifier
Etymology of EMULSIFIER
The word "emulsifier" comes from the Latin roots "e-" meaning "out" or "away" and "mulsus" meaning "soft or mellow". The Latin term was derived from "mollis" meaning "soft".
The term "emulsify" was first used in the late 19th century in the field of chemistry to describe the process of mixing two immiscible (unmixable) liquids, such as oil and water, into an emulsion. An emulsifier is a substance that helps stabilize and promote the formation of this emulsion by reducing the interfacial tension between the liquids.
The word "emulsifier" itself was coined in English around the same time, combining the prefix "emulsi-" derived from "emulsify" and the suffix "-er" indicating one who performs or causes an action.
Similar spelling words for EMULSIFIER
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
