What is Pectin?

Pectin is found in certain fruits, particularly in the peel and white matter layer of citrus fruits, apples, and plums. Pectin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide, or carbohydrate, that consists of repeating units of galacturonic acid. It forms part of the cell wall of some types of plants, and is used in various food products. Pectin can be extracted from fruit sources to be used as a thickening and gelling agent in jams, jellies, preserves, and some other processed foods.

What Are the Benefits of Pectin?

Pectin provides several benefits in terms of nutrition and health. It increases the intake of dietary fibre; a single tablespoon can provide as much as 4 grams of dietary fibre. Dietary fibre helps to prevent constipation and reduce high cholesterol levels, so it is an important part of a healthy diet. Additionally, fibre helps the body to absorb water more efficiently, and therefore can aid in weight loss and control. In addition to its role in regulating digestion and weight, pectin may be beneficial in reducing the risk of cancers and other diseases by helping to reduce inflammation and reducing the risk of certain types of diseases.

How is Pectin Used?

Pectin is most widely used in the food industry as a thickener and gelling agent. It is most frequently used in jams, jellies and preserves, although it is also found in certain baked goods such as cakes, pies, and pastries. In addition to its use as a thickener and gelling agent, pectin can also be used to improve the texture of certain products, such as ice cream and pudding. It may also be used to create a “pie-like” texture in low-fat cheese products. Pectin also has medicinal uses, including the promotion of regularity in the digestive system and decreasing the absorption of certain medications and toxins in the body.

Pectin provides a number of benefits to the food industry and is an important dietary supplement. It has a wide range of applications and is a valuable component of many processed foods. Its ability to increase the intake of dietary fibre, absorb water more efficiently, and reduce the risk of several diseases makes it an increasingly important component of a healthy diet.