| abstract |
This invention is directed to a process for the production of pectic substances having a methoxyl content of about 2 about 12% from pectic bearing substances comprising combining naturally occurring pectin bearing substances and a source of calcium ions at a pH range of about 3 to 8 to temporarily immobilize and fix said pectic substances and to cause the release of superfluous sugar and soluble solids containing liquors and juices from said pectin bearing substances while achieving a simultaneous and controlled, IN SITU, demethoxylation of said pectins; and subsequently extracting and separating said pectic substances by adding an oxalic acid containing solution and removing said calcium ions as insoluble calcium oxalate salts. |