Abstract: 2,5-dialkyl-4-hydroxy-3(2H)-furanones having the formula: ##STR1## are obtained by the aldol condensation, under basic conditions, of a 2,5-dialkyl-dihydro-3(2H)-furanone with an aldehyde, R"CHO, and dehydration of the aldol to the corresponding exocyclic alkene: ##STR2## The alkene is then reacted with ozone in a participating solvent to give the hydroperoxy-hemiacetal which is reduced to the hemiacetal, this then being converted to the desired product by heating under reflux in acidic conditions in an inert atmosphere.

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.