Varieties/Specialities
Pectins are complex polysaccharides which occur in the cell
walls of higher plants. They can be isolated from the middle lamella or
the primary cell wall. Pectins function as a bonding substance in the
middle lamella, whereas in the primary cell wall they are actively involved
in the water balance.
Pectins makeup consists of galacturonic acid monomers which form a long
molecular chain. This main chain is interrupted by rhamnose groups with
side chains made up of neutral sugars (arabinose, galactose). The carboxyl
groups (acid groups) of the galacturonic acids can be either esterified
or amidated.
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Fig. 1: Functional groups
The functional groups shown in figure 1 determine the classification of pectins. The pectin types can be differentiated according to the number of ester groups (methoxyl groups).
- High methoxyl pectins contain more than 50% ester groups.
- Low methoxyl pectins contain less than 50% ester groups.
- Amidated pectins are low methoxyl pectins which also contain up to 25% amide groups.
The properties and functionalities of a pectin are determined by its chemical structure.
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Fig. 2: Chemical structure
Obipektin offers a wide range of pectins. Our assortment includes apple as well as citrus pectin of the three major categories: high methoxyl, low methoxyl and amidated.
Differences apple vs. citrus pectin
Apple and citrus pectins differ in their chemical structure which influences their functional properties.
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