What is the fundamental role of pectin mentioned in relation to fruit spreads setting?
Answer
It is a natural carbohydrate that helps gels form
Pectin is identified as a naturally occurring carbohydrate found within fruit, and its primary function in the context of fruit spreads is facilitating the process necessary for gels to form. While it is frequently added in commercial manufacturing, especially to jams and jellies, to guarantee consistent setting, its role is structural—it aids in creating the gel matrix that characterizes these preserved products.
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