pectin
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English[edit]
Alternative forms[edit]
Etymology[edit]
From French pectine, coined in the 1830s by Henri Braconnot, from acide pectique "pectic acid", from Ancient Greek πηκτικός (pēktikós, “curdling”), from πηκτός (pēktós, “curdled”), from πήγνυμι (pḗgnumi, “stiffen”).
Pronunciation[edit]
Noun[edit]
pectin (countable and uncountable, plural pectins)
- (biochemistry) A polysaccharide extracted from the cell walls of plants, especially of fruits; under acidic conditions it forms a gel. It is often used in processed foods, especially jellies and jams where it causes thickening (setting).
- Apple is rich in pectin and so is often added to other fruits when making jam so it will set.
Synonyms[edit]
- E440 when used as an emulsifier
Related terms[edit]
Translations[edit]
substance
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