Ingredient · E440

Fruit Pectin

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add pectin primarily as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer. It is commonly …

What is Fruit Pectin?

Fruit pectin is a natural carbohydrate found in the cell walls of many fruits, especially citrus fruits and apples. It is extracted from these fruits, often from their peels or pulp, to be used as a food ingredient.

Is Fruit Pectin vegan?

Fruit Pectin is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Fruit Pectin a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Fruit Pectin used for?

Manufacturers add pectin primarily as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer.

Is Fruit Pectin safe?

In the United States, fruit pectin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add pectin primarily as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer. It is commonly used to give jams, jellies, and fruit preserves their characteristic firm texture. It also appears in some desserts, yogurts, and fruit snacks.

Health notes

In the United States, fruit pectin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. As a soluble fiber, it can contribute to digestive health. JECFA has evaluated pectin and did not set a numeric acceptable daily intake (ADI not specified), indicating that it is considered safe for consumption at levels typically found in food. EFSA has also evaluated pectin and concluded it is safe. There are no notable controversies regarding its safety.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Foods that contain Fruit Pectin

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.