Pectins
What is Pectins?
Pectins are a type of soluble dietary fibre found naturally in the cell walls of fruits and vegetables. They are typically extracted from citrus peel or apple pomace, byproducts of the juice industry. The extraction process usually involves treating the raw material with hot water or acid to release the pectin, which is then purified and dried.
Is Pectins vegan?
Pectins is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Pectins a major allergen?
Pectins are not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Pectins used for?
Pectins are primarily used as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabiliser in food products.
Is Pectins safe?
Pectins are authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Pectins are primarily used as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabiliser in food products. Their ability to form gels in the presence of sugar and acid makes them ideal for jams, jellies, and fruit spreads. They can also be used to improve the texture and mouthfeel of dairy products, baked goods, and confectionery.
Health notes
Pectins are authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and are listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. They are widely consumed as part of a normal diet through fruits and vegetables. EFSA has evaluated pectins and found them to be safe for consumption at typical intake levels. As a soluble fibre, pectins can contribute to digestive health, and some research suggests they may play a role in managing cholesterol levels, though evidence is mixed and further peer-reviewed studies are ongoing.
Regulatory status
Authorised in Great Britain (FSA register): England, Scotland, Wales. FSA register of authorised products
Permitted uses in the EU
| Food category | Maximum level |
|---|---|
| 1.6.2 Unflavoured live fermented cream products and substitute products, both with a fat content of less than 20 % | No numerical limit listed |
| 1.10 Milk-based drinks and similar products intended for young children* | 5000 |
| 4.2.4.2 compote excluding products covered by category 16 | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5 jam jellies and marmalades and similar products | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.1 Extra jam and extra jelly as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.2 Jam, jellies and marmalades and sweetened chestnut puree as defined by Directive 2001/113/EC | No numerical limit listed |
| 4.2.5.3 other similar fruit or vegetable spreads | No numerical limit listed |
| 5.1 Cocoa and chocolate products as covered by Directive 2000/36/EC | No numerical limit listed |
| 11.4.1 table-top sweeteners in liquid form | No numerical limit listed |
| 11.4.2 table-top sweeteners in powder form | No numerical limit listed |
| 11.4.3 table-top sweeteners in tablets | No numerical limit listed |
| 13.1.2 follow-on formulae as defined by by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 5000 |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 10000 |
| 13.1.3 Processed cereal-based foods and baby foods as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013 | 20000 |
| 13.1.5.1 Foods for special medical purposes as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants | 10000 |
| 13.1.5.2 Foods for special medical purposes, as defined by Regulation (EU) No 609/2013, intended for infants as from four months of age and for young children | 10000 |
| 14.1.2 Fruit juices as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable juices | 3000 |
| 14.1.3 Fruit nectars as defined by Directive 2001/112/EC and vegetable nectars and similar products | 3000 |
Allergen info
Pectins are not derived from any of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Therefore, they are considered not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Pectins
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