Chitosan/pectin/gum Arabic polyelectrolyte complex: process-dependent appearance, microstructure analysis and its application.

•Novel chitosan/pectin/gum Arabic (C/P/A) polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) solutions and membranes were prepared.•The appearance of the C/P/A PEC solutions, either turbid or clear, was process-dependent.•The C/P/A solutions contained both globe-like and network-like microstructures.•The tensile strength and hydrophilicity of the C/P/A (weight ratio: 84/8/8) membranes were enhanced.•Using the C/P/A membranes as a drug carrier exhibited steady and complete drug (insulin) release.