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Louis Dreyfus Company Agricultural Industries (LDC) has announced the opening of its new soy liquid lecithin facility in Claypool, Indiana, US. The site will integrate soybean processing, biodiesel production, and glycerin and lecithin refining operations, as well as a food-grade packaging line and canola oil distribution terminal. Lecithin has a wide range of applications in food manufacturing, and is used in products such as confectionery and prepared foods. Louis Dreyfus describes the ingredient as a "versatile emulsifier, dispersing agent, antioxidant and flavour enhancer". Louis Dreyfus US head of grains & oilseeds, Gordon Russell, said: "This development is part of LDC's strategic plans to diversify revenue streams through value-added products – in this case, by expanding our presence in the ingredients value chain and diversifying our food and feed solutions portfolio. Lecithin is a natural extension of our existing operations in Claypool, where we have also increased our edible oils and refined glycerin origination and production capabilities." "Thanks to rigorous controls at every stage of the production process, laboratory enhancements and ISO level seven food grade packaging operations, our facility offers customers product quality assurance, as well as a range of packaging options in bulk trucks, totes and drums."