What is E440? Pectins Explained
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E440 is Pectins — natural pectin extracted from citrus peel or apple pomace — the gelling agent in home-made jams.
What is E440 (Pectins)?
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.
Where is E440 found?
E440 (Pectins) is found in soups and gravies, yoghurts, jams, ready meals, salad dressings, ice cream.
- soups and gravies
- yoghurts
- jams
- ready meals
- salad dressings
- ice cream
Also known as: Pectin
Is E440 safe?
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.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E440. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Related to E440 (Pectins)
Products relevant to this additive and your dietary choices
Additive-Free Cookbook
Recipes using whole, unprocessed ingredients with no E-numbers.
Whole Food Cooking Guide
Guides to cooking from scratch and reducing processed food intake.
E440 FAQs
What is E440 in food?
E440 is Pectins — natural pectin extracted from citrus peel or apple pomace — the gelling agent in home-made jams.
Is E440 safe to eat?
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 E440 vegan?
E440 (Pectins) is vegan. It is derived from plant (citrus/apple peel), with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E440 halal?
E440 (Pectins) is halal. It is derived from plant (citrus/apple peel), which involves no haram sources.
Related Thickeners & Gelling Agents additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA