Pectin is a naturally occurring substance (a polysaccaride) found in all plant tissue, calcium pectin being present between the cell walls and serving as a strengthening or building agent. Fruits naturally possessing relatively large amount of pectin include lemons, bitter oranges, apples, quinces, currants and plums.The main use for pectin (vegetable agglutinate) is as a gelling agent, thickening agent and stabilizer in food. The classical application is giving the jelly-like consistency to jams or marmalades, which would otherwise be sweet juices.
Market for pectin has been witnessing significant growth on account of rising demand for food products from developed as well as developing economies. The industry has been mature in developed regions such Europe, followed by North America. However, the industry for pectin is anticipated to grow rapidly in emerging economies such as China and India owing to change in lifestyle of the individuals as well as changing consumer preferences for convenience foods. Moreover, economic development in China has resulted in increasing purchase power of consumers, leading to increasing demand for high-quality processed foods.
Although the industry for pectin is rapidly growing driven by rising demand for processed and convenience foods, growing preference towards functional foods from various health conscious consumers have also played a key role in the growth of the market. As a whole it is a good project for new entrepreneurs to invest.