Emulsifiers, Stabilisers, Thickeners
and Gelling Agents.
Found in ripe fruit such as apples and plums but mainly
prepared from citrus peel, traditionally lemons, limes and grapefruit.
Pectin is mainly used as a gelling agent, but can also act as
thickener, water binder and stabiliser. The key characteristics
being that it forms jelly and jam-type gels in presence of sugar
and acid which is then used to gell various foods, drugs, and
cosmetics.
Uses include confectionery, high-sugar jellies, jams, preserves,
marmalades and acid milk drinks.