HM Citrus Pectin

Pectin, a natural polysaccharide, is commonly used as a gelling agent, thickener, emulsifier and stabilizer in food, European food additive number E440. It is made mainly from citrus peel and apple pomace and is commonly used in jams and jellies.

Food grade pectin is a high molecular weight polysaccharide that consists of two parts: more than 65% galacturonic acid, and 35% other polysaccharides and some small amounts of monosaccharides.

The basic principle of pectin extraction is to break down raw pectin (in the form of raw pectin, pectic acid, and pectate) into water-soluble pectin, which is then separated from cellulose, starch, protein, pigment, and other components.

The basic structure of pectin consists mainly of D-galacturonic acid units, which are polymerized by α-1,4 glycoside linkages, with some of the carboxyl groups on the galacturonic acid residues in the form of methyl esters (methylated).

The remaining carboxyl groups on galacturonic acid are present as free acids or as salts of potassium, sodium, ammonium, and calcium.

The percentage of total galacturonic acid reflects the purity of the pectin, which should contain not less than 65% of food grade.

The proper amount of apple pectin to use is not specified, although most manufacturers usually recommend a daily dose of between 1,000 mg and 1,400 mg. It's best to take it 30 minutes before a meal so it can bind to excess water, fat, or carbohydrates in the gut.

Yes, it has virtually no side effects and its safety has been recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), as well as the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA).

Pectin is considered safe for dogs over sixteen weeks of age. However, you should always consult your veterinarian when making health decisions, not internet articles.

In most people, including adults, children, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, pectin MAY be safe in the amounts taken in food; it MAY be safe when used in larger medicinal amounts.

Modified citrus pectin is considered generally safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There were only mild side effects reported in clinical studies, including bloating, gas and loose stools.

Yes, pectin is vegan, as it occurs naturally in fruit and no animal-derived products are used in its manufacture, making it suitable for a vegan diet.

Yes, pectin is a halal food, in line with Muslim policy.

Yes, pectin can also be approved for Kosher. Our gellan gum manufacturer could also provide Kosher certificate.

Pectin isn’t bad for you. But pectin needs a lot of sugar to work - about two-thirds to one-half of the jam you use it in.

High sugar content is standard in jams and jellies, but that sugar is still bad for you: it can rot your teeth, add to your weight through blood sugar spikes, and put you at risk for long-term diseases like diabetes.

Be aware of your sugar intake and use your best dietary judgment when consuming products that contain pectin. Of course, pectin is a fiber, so it will reduce some of the high sugar content.

Yes, it is gluten-free because it does not contain wheat, rye, barley or hybrids of these grains.

Pectin is a fiber and contains almost no calories or nutrients.

Pectin can cause stomach cramps, diarrhea, gas, and loose stools.

• Citrus peels. Citrus peels—especially the white part, or pith—are naturally packed with pectin. ...
• Corn starch. Corn starch is a natural thickener that works as a seamless substitute for pectin.
• Gelatin. Gelatin is a viable option for non-vegans or non-vegetarians.
• Extra sugar.