Pectin is a heteropolysaccharide commercially derived from the cell wall of higher plants. It is composed of partially methylated polygalacturonic acid units linked in the positions 1-4. The carboxylic group of the constituents of pectin can exist in the form of esters, free acids, ammonium, potassium or sodium salts or as acid amides. Under the FDA regulation, pectin qualifies as a GRAS (generally recognized as safe) food substance. This status allows pectin to be used with no limitations.
Solubility Partially soluble in cold water
Formula
C6H10O7
Mol. Weight
194.14
CAS #
9000-69-5
Form
Powder
State
Yellowish-white solid; [Merck Index] Light brown powder; [MSDSonline]
See origin →
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Viscosity Controlling
Antioxidant
Improves Elasticity
Anti-Aging
Holds ingredients together
Keeps product blended
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
Extracted from fruit cell walls and used traditionally in food preservation since ancient times. Adopted in 20th-century cosmetics for its gelling and thickening properties, particularly in face masks and skincare gels.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
2
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
1%
0%1%
Reg. Limit
EU regulatory limit: 1%. Source: EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, Annex III (Restricted Substances), Entry 24. Dermal absorption: 2%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 680).