Comparing E440 - Pectins vs E460I - Microcrystalline cellulose
Overview
Synonyms
Functions
Products
Found in 14,322 products
Found in 1,203 products
Search rank & volume
Awareness score
Search volume over time
Interest over time for 3 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.
Popular questions
What is fruit pectin?
Fruit pectin is a plant-derived soluble fiber (a polysaccharide) from fruit cell walls, extracted mainly from citrus peels or apples and used as a natural gelling agent for jams and jellies.
Is pectin bad for you?
No—pectin is generally recognized as safe and is a soluble dietary fiber; in large amounts it may cause gas or bloating and can reduce absorption of some medicines if taken at the same time.
What is pectin made of?
Pectin is a complex carbohydrate polymer rich in galacturonic acid units, extracted from plant cell walls—commercially most often from citrus peels and apple pomace.
Is pectin vegan?
Yes; pectin is plant-derived and considered vegan, as it’s extracted from fruit byproducts.
What is pectin used for?
It’s used as a gelling agent in jams and jellies and as a thickener/stabilizer in desserts, confectionery, fruit preparations, and some juices or milk drinks, and it also contributes dietary fiber.
Is microcrystalline cellulose safe?
Yes—regulators such as the FDA (GRAS) and EFSA (ADI “not specified”) consider E460(i) safe at typical food-use levels. Because it isn’t digested, very high intakes may cause gas or laxative effects in some people.
Is microcrystalline cellulose bad for you?
No—it's an inert, non-digestible dietary fiber with very low toxicity. Potential issues are generally limited to bloating or stool changes if consumed in large amounts.
What is microcrystalline cellulose made from?
It’s purified, partially depolymerized cellulose made by acid hydrolysis of alpha-cellulose from plant sources such as wood pulp or cotton.
Is microcrystalline cellulose gluten free?
Yes—it's naturally gluten-free since it’s pure plant cellulose and contains no wheat, barley, or rye proteins.
Is microcrystalline cellulose safe for dogs?
Yes—it's commonly used as a fiber/binder in dog foods and is considered safe at typical levels. Excessive amounts may cause stool changes or GI upset, so check with a veterinarian for pets with digestive issues.