E440

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.