Food Additive DB

Cross-Country Regulation Comparison

Disclaimer: This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and may change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

Pectins

E440 | INS 440

Names & Identifiers

E Number
E440
INS Number
440
CAS Number
9000-69-5
Scientific Name
Pectin
Japanese Name
ペクチン
Also Known As
Fruit pectin, Apple pectin, Citrus pectin

Regulation Status by Country

🇪🇺 EU Approved 🇺🇸 USA Approved 🇯🇵 Japan Approved 🇦🇺 AU/NZ Approved 🇨🇦 Canada Approved

European Union

Status: approved | Max level: quantum satis mg/kg

Widely permitted in most food categories

United States

Status: approved | GRAS

Japan

Status: approved | Category: 既存添加物

Australia / New Zealand

Status: approved | Code: 440

Canada

Status: approved

What is Pectins?

Classification

Function: stabiliser
Type: natural
Source: plant-derived

Natural Occurrence

A structural polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants. Particularly abundant in fruit peels and cores.

Found in: apples, citrus peels, berries, carrots, tomatoes

How It's Made

Method: extraction
Extracted from citrus peels or apple pomace using hot dilute acid, followed by filtration, precipitation with alcohol, drying, and standardization.

Uses Beyond Food

  • Cosmetics: Used in skincare products as a gelling agent and film former.
  • Pharmaceutical: Used in pharmaceutical formulations as a suspending agent and in cholesterol-lowering supplements.
  • Household: Sold as home jam-making pectin

Commonly Found In

Pectins is typically used in:

Jams and jellies Yogurt and dairy desserts Fruit juice and drinks Bakery fillings Confectionery Low-sugar preserves

Note: This list shows typical product categories and may vary by brand and region. Always check product labels for actual ingredients.

Safety Evaluations (Official)

JECFA (WHO/FAO)

ADI: Not specified

EFSA (EU)

ADI: Not specified

ADI = Acceptable Daily Intake (mg per kg of body weight per day)

Research & Official Documents

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pectins (E440)?

Pectins (E440) is a stabiliser used in food products. It is natural and plant-derived. A structural polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants. Particularly abundant in fruit peels and cores.

Where is Pectins found naturally?

Pectins is naturally found in apples, citrus peels, berries, carrots, tomatoes. A structural polysaccharide found in the cell walls of plants. Particularly abundant in fruit peels and cores.

What foods contain Pectins?

Pectins is used in various food categories including Fruit and vegetable preparations, Other confectionery. It is used as a stabiliser in these products.

Is Pectins the same as Fruit pectin?

Yes, Pectins is also known as Fruit pectin, Apple pectin, Citrus pectin. These are different names for the same substance.

Related Additives

Other stabilisers in our database: