ATLANTA — CP Kelco, a producer of hydrocolloid systems, plans to build a processing plant for dry citrus peel in Latin America, pending approval of the board of directors. Citrus peel is used to produce pectin. Atlanta-based CP Kelco offers the Genu brand of pectin for use in beverages, dressings, jams, jellies, bakery fillings and pharmaceutical applications.

“In light of the current global shortage of citrus peel and the continuing rapid growth in pectin demand across all regional markets, investing in a new peel facility demonstrates our commitment to serve as a sustainable provider of pectin over the long term,” said Don Rubright, president of CP Kelco.

Earlier this year CP Kelco decided to expand capacity at its pectin manufacturing facility in Limeira, Brazil. The expansion is expected to be completed in 2015.