emulsifier

Meanings

1. 1nouncountablechemistrytechnical

   A substance that helps liquids that normally separate, such as oil and water, mix together and stay mixed.

   Grammar: Takes a: lecithin is an emulsifier.

   Patterns

   • an emulsifier in something
   • use something as an emulsifier

   Egg yolk acts as an emulsifier in mayonnaise.

   The label lists soy lecithin as an emulsifier.

   Without an emulsifier, the dressing separates into layers.

2. 2nouncountabletechnical

   A food additive used by manufacturers to give products a smooth, even texture.

   Grammar: Often in ingredient lists: contains emulsifiers.

   Patterns

   • contains an emulsifier
   • free from emulsifiers

   Many ice creams use an emulsifier to stay creamy.

   She avoids foods with added emulsifiers.

   Bakers add an emulsifier to keep the bread soft.

Word forms

Common combinations

natural emulsifier

Egg is a natural emulsifier.

act as an emulsifier

Mustard can act as an emulsifier in a vinaigrette.

food emulsifier

The food emulsifier keeps the sauce smooth.

add an emulsifier

Add an emulsifier to stop the mixture from splitting.

emulsifiers and stabilizers

The cream contains emulsifiers and stabilizers.

Synonyms and how they differ

stabilizer

A stabilizer keeps a mixture from changing over time, whereas an emulsifier specifically helps oil and water blend.

binder

A binder holds ingredients together in general, but it need not mix liquids.

surfactant

Surfactant is the chemistry term for a broader group of surface-active agents that includes emulsifiers.

Word family

emulsify verb

to make a mixture of oil and water blend

emulsion noun

a mixture of liquids that do not normally mix

emulsification noun

the process of forming an emulsion

Commonly confused: emulsifier or emulsion?

Practice

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