E440 · Pectin
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E440?
Pectin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the cell walls of fruits, especially citrus peel and apples. It is widely used as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer, most notably in jams, jellies, fruit preparations, and some dairy products, and it typically requires sugar and acid to form a gel. It's also a source of soluble fiber.
Also appears on labels as: pectin, Pectin, fruit pectin, citrus pectin, apple pectin, high methoxyl pectin, low methoxyl pectin, pectin powder, pectin extract, E440, E 440, E-440.
What the evidence says
- High intake can cause mild digestive issues (gas, bloating, or diarrhea) due to its fiber content.
Frequently asked questions
Is E440 safe?
Our overall verdict for E440 (Pectin) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E440 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Pectin — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E440 and why is it used?
Pectin is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the cell walls of fruits, especially citrus peel and apples. It is widely used as a gelling agent, thickener, and stabilizer, most notably in jams, jellies, fruit preparations, and some dairy products, and it typically requires sugar and acid to form a gel. It's also a source of soluble fiber.
Does E440 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Pectin, though some people report sensitivity (Rare allergic reactions have been reported in individuals with citrus or apple allergies, since pectin is fruit-derived.).
Watch E440
Get an email if the EFSA or FDA position on Pectin changes, or when new research is added to this page.
EatMatrix reads any ingredient list with your camera and flags every additive instantly.
This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.