Is Pectin Safe? E440 Explained
Pectin is E440 (Pectins) — natural pectin extracted from citrus peel or apple pomace — the gelling agent in home-made jams.
What is Pectin?
E440 is Pectins, a food additive classified as a thickeners & gelling agent that thicken and gel foods. Natural pectin extracted from citrus peel or apple pomace — the gelling agent in home-made jams. You'll find it in soups and gravies, yoghurts, jams and many other packaged foods. Pectins is one of the better-known food additives and appears regularly in label-reading guides and dietary discussions. Like every E-number, E440 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Is Pectin bad for you?
EFSA has reviewed E440 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Pectins to harm at normal dietary intakes.
EFSA opinion: Pectins — status Safe.
Foods containing Pectin
- soups and gravies
- yoghurts
- jams
- ready meals
- salad dressings
- ice cream
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Pectin FAQs
Is Pectin bad for you?
EFSA has reviewed E440 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Pectins to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is Pectin vegan?
E440 (Pectins) is vegan. It is derived from plant (citrus/apple peel), with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is Pectin halal?
E440 (Pectins) is halal. It is derived from plant (citrus/apple peel), which involves no haram sources.
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA