**3. Conclusion and future prospects**

From current research, root and tubers have shown potentials as unconventional sources of commercial pectin. They have shown promising emulsifying, textural, pharmaceuticals and neutraceutical properties that can be applied to a variety of industries.

These starchy crops already serve as raw materials for several markets and industries but can compete favorably in the current commercial pectin market which has citrus fruits as its highest contributor. The current pectin market is valued at US\$994.45 million and it is expected to exceed US \$1 billion by 2030. Africa being the highest producer of root and tubers is poised to be a benefactor from this billion dollar market. It is imperative that national and international agencies fund research into improving root and tuber pectin yields, and structures by optimizing extraction and modification techniques.
