Digestoa
Additive · Thickener

Pectin (E440)

Pectin (E440) is a thickener that Digestoa rates as low concern — it's considered safe at the levels used in food.

Digestoa riskNo known risk
TypeThickener
Found insauces, dressings, dairy and plant-based products, soups and desserts

What is Pectin?

Pectin (E440) is a thickener — used to thicken and stabilise texture.

Is Pectin bad for you?

Pectin is permitted in food and Digestoa rates it as low concern. There's no strong evidence it causes harm at the levels typically used in food.

What foods contain Pectin?

Sauces, dressings, dairy and plant-based products, soups and desserts.

Digestoa's take

You don't need to avoid Pectin. It's one of the more benign things on an ingredients list — worth knowing, not worth worrying about.

Safer swaps

Look for products thickened with pectin (E440) or with simpler ingredient lists.

Frequently asked questions

Is E440 the same as Pectin?
Yes — E440 is the international additive (E-number) code for Pectin.
Is Pectin bad for you?
Digestoa rates Pectin (E440) as low concern. It's permitted in food and considered safe at normal dietary levels.
What are the side effects of Pectin?
No significant side effects are associated with Pectin at the levels used in food.
What foods contain Pectin?
Sauces, dressings, dairy and plant-based products, soups and desserts.
How can I avoid Pectin?
Check the ingredients list for "Pectin" or "E440", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related thickener additives

Carrageenan (E407)Locust bean gum (E410)Guar gum (E412)Xanthan gum (E415)Acacia gum (E414)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.