Pectin is extracted from apples and citrus fruits. Soluble pectin is capable of forming a gel once the correct concentrations of acid and sugar are reached. This is helpful to thicken syrups, such as those used to make jams and jellies.
What is the main ingredient in pectin?
Pectin (from Ancient Greek: πηκτικός pēktikós, “congealed, curdled”) is a structural acidic heteropolysaccharide contained in the primary and middle lamella and cell walls of terrestrial plants. Its main component is galacturonic acid, a sugar acid derived from galactose.
Is gelatin the same as pectin?
Pectin vs. Gelatin is a common substitute for pectin. Like pectin, it’s a powder that dissolves in warm water or any other liquid. Once it cools, the liquid forms a gel. However, gelatin is derived from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of animals or fish, so it’s not vegan- or vegetarian-friendly (4).