Abstract: This invention modifies pectin, and improves, by the use of the modified pectin, physical properties of a subject composition, such as dispersion stability, emulsifying activity/emulsion stability, water holding property (syneresis inhibiting property), texture, viscosity development property, and gelling property. Pectin is modified by heating a raw material pectin in the form of a powder at 50 to 150° C. for 1 minute to 48 hours. Preferably, as a raw material pectin to be heated, pectin whose loss upon drying is 20% (w/w) or lower is used. More preferably, the raw material pectin is heated at 50 to 150° C. for 1 minute to 48 hours at a relative humidity of 20 to 90% (w/w) and/or under a reduced pressure.

Abstract: This invention provides a method of preparing emulsion compositions particularly emulsion foods, with excellent emulsifying activity, emulsion stability, heat resistance, and texture or mouthfeel. The method can be performed by carrying out a step (1) mixing pectin obtained by heating sugar beet pectin derived from sugar beet in powder form at a temperature of 50 to 150° C. at a relative humidity of 20 to 90% for 1 to 48 hours with raw materials for emulsion compositions; and a step (2) emulsifying the mixture obtained in the step (1), or, in place of step (1), (a) homogenizing a modified pectin in alternatively water systems; (b) mixing the water dispersions of the modified pectin obtained in step (a) with raw materials for emulsion compositions; and (c) emulsifying the mixture obtained in step (b). Thus, emulsion compositions can be prepared.