Which of the soluble fibres found in fruits is used as a thickener in cooking and baking?

The correct answer is Pectin.Key Points

• Pectin is a soluble fiber found in fruits that is commonly used as a thickener in cooking and baking.
• It is particularly useful for making jams and jellies as it helps to set the fruit mixture.
• Pectin is also used in the food industry as a stabilizer and emulsifier, and it is found in many processed foods such as yogurt, ice cream, and salad dressings.

Additional Information

• Lignin is also a type of fiber found in fruits, but it is not soluble in water and therefore cannot be used as a thickener.
  • Lignin is a significant organic polymer that is widely distributed in the cell walls of some particular cells.
  • It performs a wide range of biological tasks, including the movement of water, mechanical support, and resistance to various stresses.
• Cellulose is another type of fiber found in fruits, but it is also not soluble in water and is not commonly used as a thickener in cooking and baking.
  • All plant cell walls contain cellulose, an insoluble dietary fiber made of glucose polymers.
  • Foods that contain cellulose include leafy green vegetables like kale, Brussels sprouts, and green peas.
• Inulin is a soluble fiber found in some fruits and vegetables, but it is not commonly used as a thickener in cooking and baking.
  • It is often used as a prebiotic to promote gut health.
  • In the stomach, it is neither digested nor absorbed.
  • It persists in the bowel and promotes the growth of specific advantageous bacteria.