Marmalades

Marmalades are preserves, often clear or translucent, produced from the pulp and rind of fruits — mainly citrus fruits such as bitter (Seville) oranges, lemons and grapefruits. Shredded peel is cooked with juice, water and sugar to a gel set, with the pectin of the rind and added acid giving the characteristic firm-yet-spreadable texture; the bitter notes of the peel define the traditional style. Adequate sugar content (typically ≥60°Brix) and heat processing ensure preservation and microbiological safety, while controlled boiling preserves bright colour and fresh flavour. Compositional standards in many countries define minimum fruit content and labelling as ‘marmalade’ versus jam.