E440B · Amidated pectin
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E440B?
Amidated pectin is a chemically modified form of pectin that gels more reliably across a wider range of sugar and acidity levels than standard pectin. It is used mainly in reduced-sugar jams, fruit fillings, and confectionery where regular pectin would not set well. Its food function is purely as a gelling and thickening agent.
Also appears on labels as: E440ii, E 440ii, E-440ii, E440b, E 440b, E-440b, INS 440(ii), Amidated pectin, Low methoxyl amidated pectin, LMA pectin, Pectin (amidated), Amidated LM pectin.
What the evidence says
- May cause mild bloating or gas at high intakes, as with other soluble fibers.
- Approved as safe by EFSA and FDA at typical food-use levels; considered similarly low-risk to standard pectin.
Research behind the verdict
- Amidated Pectin: Modified Pectin Safety and Enhanced Functionality Assessment — EFSA Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources, EFSA Journal - Pectins Assessment (2016). A detailed safety evaluation of amidated pectin (E440b) examining its use as an enhanced gelling agent with improved properties compared to regular pectin. The research confirmed that amidated pectin presents excellent safety margins while providing superior gel strength and stability in various food applications. The study noted its modification process maintains the safety profile of natural pectin while enhancing functional properties. The assessment supports its use in food applications requiring specialized gelling characteristics.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E440B safe?
Our overall verdict for E440B (Amidated 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 E440B vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Amidated 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 E440B and why is it used?
Amidated pectin is a chemically modified form of pectin that gels more reliably across a wider range of sugar and acidity levels than standard pectin. It is used mainly in reduced-sugar jams, fruit fillings, and confectionery where regular pectin would not set well. Its food function is purely as a gelling and thickening agent.
Does E440B contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Amidated pectin.
Watch E440B
Get an email if the EFSA or FDA position on Amidated 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.