Appears safe based on current evidence
Safety assessments compiled from FDA, EFSA, FSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies. This information is for educational purposes — consult a healthcare professional for dietary advice.
Citrus Pectin
Last reviewed: April 2026 · Data sourced from WHO JECFA, FDA, EFSA, and 7 other regulatory agencies
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Citrus Pectin is rated "Appears Safe" according to current evidence. It is approved in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Citrus Pectin?
Pectin extracted from citrus peel. In jams, jellies, fruit preparations. High-methoxyl (HM) for jams, low-methoxyl (LM) for dairy. Modified citrus pectin studied for cancer
Citrus Pectin is classified as a Thickener additive. It is currently approved in all major regulatory markets.
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
ApprovedPectin extracted from citrus peel. In jams, jellies, fruit preparations. High-methoxyl (HM) for jams, low-methoxyl (LM) for dairy. Modified citrus pectin studied for cancer
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Approved (as E440)Pectin extracted from citrus peel. In jams, jellies, fruit preparations. High-methoxyl (HM) for jams, low-methoxyl (LM) for dairy. Modified citrus pectin studied for cancer
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EUFollows EU regulations
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
ApprovedWidely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
ApprovedPermitted under GB 2760 national standard.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Citrus Pectin is classified as a thickener in the food additive regulatory framework. Current scientific evidence supports its safety when consumed within established limits. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Citrus Pectin safe?
Citrus Pectin has a safety rating of "Appears Safe". Appears safe based on current evidence
Is Citrus Pectin vegan?
Citrus Pectin is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Citrus Pectin banned in Europe?
No, Citrus Pectin is Approved (as E440) in the EU.
What is Citrus Pectin made from?
Pectin extracted from citrus peel. In jams, jellies, fruit preparations. High-methoxyl (HM) for jams, low-methoxyl (LM) for dairy. Modified citrus pectin studied for cancer
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Citrus Pectin safe?
Is Citrus Pectin banned in any country?
What is Citrus Pectin used for?
Sources & References
Regulatory data for Citrus Pectin is sourced from the following agencies:
- FDA: Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS)
- EFSA: Food Additives Database
- FSA: Approved Additives and E Numbers
- MHLW: Standards for Use of Food Additives
- Health Canada: Lists of Permitted Food Additives
- FSANZ: Food Additives
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards
- MFDS: Food Additives Standards
- ANVISA: Food Additives Legislation
- GB 2760: National Food Safety Standard
- WHO JECFA: International Safety Evaluations
- CSPI: Chemical Cuisine — Food Additive Safety Ratings
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