There is described a method for obtaining pectin from a pectin-containing material that involves treating the pectin-containing material with an enzyme that causes the pectin to be released from the pectin-containing material. Suitable enzymes include, but are not limited to, cellulase enzymes, hemicellulase enzymes, and mixtures thereof. Ethanol and isopropanol are typical alcohols utilized in recovering the pectin. Also decarbohydrates scribed is the pectin produced by the method, and the use of the pectin in foods and beverages.