FAQ's

Here at House of Webster we take great pride in producing quality products for you, your family and your friends. This is a tradition that we have maintained since 1934.  But some of you may ask, "What's in the jar?"  "Is there really a difference?"  A simple answer to these simple questions is, "yes", there is a difference. So let me shed a little light on the subject... 

The Facts About Honey, Sugar, Corn Syrup and Artificial Sweeteners

We're all more concerned with nutritional issues these days than ever before.  You may be hearing some controversial publicity regarding the dietary intake of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS).  Since we at House of Webster use this sweetener in our preserves, syrups, and jellies, we feel it important enough to point out the following information to our customers.  The Corn Refiners Association has created a website that explains the comparative nutritional aspects of both natural and artificial sweeteners as compared with cane sugar.  This website should hopefully set the record straight and allow you, our loyal customers, to make a more informed decision regarding the use of these sweeteners.  Please check out this interesting and informative website at www.sweetsurprise.com. 

Here Are The Facts About Preserves, Jellies & Jams, Spreads, Butters And More

Jelly: Just the strained juice from the fruit is used to make jelly. We process it in such a way that keeps it crystal clear and shimmering. It is gelatinized enough to make it firm and capable of holding its shape outside the jar, yet it is still soft enough to spread easily.

Preserves and Jams: Preserves and Jams are made by cooking whole, crushed, or pulped fruit(s) with sugar, or corn syrup. Preserves and Jams, while not as gelatinous as jelly, the mixture should round up in a spoon.

Butters: Butters are made by cooking fruit pulp and sugar to a thick consistency that will spread easily. Spices may be added; the amount and variety may vary depending on the type of fruit butter.  Typically butters are milled, so you get that rich smooth texture.

Spreadable Fruit: Fruit spreads are made with fruit juice and crushed fruit only.  There are no sugars added to the product, the only sugar in it comes from the fruit itself. Often, but not always, fruit spreads are made with fruit juice concentrates or low-calorie sweeteners, replacing all or part of the sugar.  At House of Webster, we do NOT add sugar or low-calorie sweeteners to our delicious fruit spreads.  This natural product is great for those who are watching their sugar intake.

Pectin & Acid: All of our products require food grade acids and pectin that make the product shelf stable and cause the product to "set", or "stiffen-up". Without these two important natural additives there would be no jelly.

Marmalades: Marmalade is usually made from citrus fruit (lemons, limes, oranges, etc.), may contain a citrus peel ingredient and is jelly-like product made from properly prepared juice.