pectin & its usage/types
What is PECTIN
Pectin is a natural, plant-based gelling agent that is found in fruits, and the cell walls of plants. It is a gelling, stabilizing, and thickening agent that is used in many food products, such as jams, jellies, and desserts. Pectin is extracted from fruits and vegetables in many ways such as Acid Extraction, Alcohol precipitation, Enzyme-assisted extraction, etc.
whaT are types of Pectin:
Pectin can be classified into three types based on its degree of esterification (DE): Here's what degree of esterification is
High methoxyl pectin (HMP): it has a DE of more than 50%. It is the most common type of pectin and is used to make jams and jellies. HMP gels in the presence of sugar and acid.
Low methoxyl pectin (LMP): It has a DE of less than 50%. It requires the presence of divalent cations, such as calcium (Ca++ ions), to gel. LMP is often used in low-sugar jams and jellies.
Low methoxyl-amidated pectin (LMAP): It is a type of LMP that has been chemically modified to increase its gelling ability. LMAP can be used to make jams and jellies without the need for added sugar or divalent cations.
In addition to being classified by DE, pectin can also be classified by its origin. Commercial pectin is primarily extracted from citrus peel and apple pomace.
Here is a table summarizing the different types of pectin: (click to view the table)...
what are the uses of pectin:
Jams and jellies: Pectin is used to gel jams and jellies. It is typically used in combination with sugar and acid to create a firm, spreadable gel.
Confectionery: it can be used to stabilize confectionery products, such as jellies, marshmallows, and gummy candies. It helps to prevent these products from becoming too soft or runny.
Dairy: Pectin can be used to stabilize acidified dairy beverages, such as yogurt, milk drinks, and protein shakes. It helps to prevent these beverages from separating and becoming watery.
Beverages: Pectin can be used to stabilize and thicken beverages, such as fruit juices, smoothies, and milkshakes.
Bakery: It used to make glazes for pastries and desserts. It helps to create a shiny, attractive finish and can also help to preserve the freshness of the product.
Medicine: Pectin is sometimes used in medicine as a laxative or to help bind medications together.
Cosmetics: Pectin is sometimes used in cosmetics as a thickener or gelling agent.
If you have ever made homemade jam or read the ingredients list on a jar of jelly at the store, you may have come across the word "pectin." Pectin is a key ingredient in preserves, helping them to "set" or form the desired gel-like texture. But what exactly is pectin, where can you find it, and is it good for you? Here's what you need to know.
Process of industrial production of pectin
