Pectin

Pectin is a natural fiber found in the cell walls of fruits, and commercially it is extracted mostly from citrus peels and apple pomace. When cooked with sugar and acid, pectin forms a gel, which is how it sets jams, jellies, fruit fillings and gelatin-free gummies.

How pectin gummies are made

Fruit juice or purée, sugar and pectin are cooked together to a precise sugar concentration. Acid, often citric acid, is added at the right moment to trigger setting. The warm mixture is deposited into molds, allowed to set, and may be finished with a sugar or sour-sugar coating.

Pectin vs. gelatin

• Source — pectin comes from fruit; gelatin comes from animal collagen. Pectin gummies can be vegan; gelatin gummies cannot.
• Texture — pectin gives a tender, "short" bite that breaks cleanly, like a firm fruit jelly. Gelatin is springier and more elastic.
• Flavor release — pectin melts cleanly and lets fruit flavors come through brightly.
• Heat — gelatin melts near body temperature, while set pectin holds its shape better in warm conditions, though any gummy can get sticky in the heat.

Organic pectin

"Organic pectin" is pectin extracted from organically grown fruit and certified to organic standards. It works the same way as conventional pectin in the kitchen.

Pectin in Polkadot gummies

According to their product descriptions, the Polkadot Vegan Magic Gummies are made with pectin, many specifically with organic pectin and real fruit juice, instead of gelatin. That is why they suit a plant-based diet. Taste the difference in the Watermelon or Sour Apple gummies, or explore the richer craft gummies like Royal Milk Tea. Our gummies flavors guide covers the full lineup.