This study evaluates the performance of forward osmosis (FO) to concentrate and dewater apple pomace extract for subsequent pectin recovery. After pretreatment by sieve filtration and centrifugation, the FO water flux during real apple pomace extract concentration was 7.8 L m−2·h−1 and was comparable to the FO process for a one-component model pectin solution. However, due to fouling, at 75% water recovery, up to 70% flux decline was observed. Osmotic backwashing using a spent draw solution as the osmotic agent was effective and could completely restore the water flux (ca. 100% flux recovery) after multiple filtration cycles. A comprehensive techno-economic assessment was also conducted to demonstrate significant reduction in capital investment and operating cost when applying FO for concentrating apple pomace extract prior to pectin recovery. The investment payback period was shortened from over 5 to 2 years, at 80% water recovery. Results in this study highlight the utility of FO to replace the traditional evaporation method for enhance the economic viability and environmental friendliness of pectin recovery.