Pectin E440
What is Pectin E440?
Pectin is a natural carbohydrate found in the cell walls of fruits and vegetables, especially apples and citrus peels. It is typically extracted from these sources using hot water and then purified. The resulting powder is a complex polysaccharide.
Is Pectin E440 vegan?
Pectin E440 is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Pectin E440 gluten-free?
It is also gluten-free.
Is Pectin E440 a major allergen?
Pectin is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens.
What is Pectin E440 used for?
Pectin is primarily used as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer in foods.
Is Pectin E440 safe?
Pectin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food.
Why it's used
Pectin is primarily used as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer in foods. It is responsible for the gel-like consistency of jams, jellies, and marmalades. It is also used in fruit-flavored yogurts, candies, and as a fat replacer in baked goods.
Health notes
Pectin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food. It is a type of soluble fiber, and as such, may contribute to digestive health. Both the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated pectin, and it is permitted for use in foods in many countries. Research suggests pectin may help lower cholesterol levels, though evidence is mixed.
Allergen info
Pectin is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It is also gluten-free.
Foods that contain Pectin E440
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