An aqueous, nonflammable release composition for use in food preparation comprises water; de-oiled, powdered lecithin; and less than 10% oil. The de-oiled, powdered lecithin is water-miscible, which facilitates the use of less or no oil in a release composition and allows the use of a nonflammable propellant. The nonflammable release composition may be applied to cooking utensils such as baking and frying pans to prevent or inhibit food from sticking during cooking and to facilitate cleaning.