Why did my aloe vera gel turn pink in the fridge? A complete guide to aloe vera

Why Did My Aloe Vera Gel Turn Pink in the Fridge?

With its cooling and soothing properties, aloe vera gel is a staple ingredient for sunburn relief, skincare, and various DIY health remedies. But sometimes when storing aloe gel in the fridge, people notice the normally clear gel takes on a pinkish hue. What causes this color change?

While a pink tinge may look worrisome, it is actually harmless in most cases. Read on to learn what makes aloe vera turn pink and whether it is still safe to use.

Oxidation of Phenolic Compounds

Fresh aloe vera gel naturally contains phenolic compounds like anthraquinones and tannins. Phenolic compounds are antioxidants that give aloe some of its health benefits.

However, when exposed to air these phenolic compounds can oxidize, causing the formation of a red or pink pigment. Refrigeration slows the oxidation process but does not stop it completely, allowing the pink hue to emerge over time.

Harmless Color Change

Although the pink color may appear strange, it is completely harmless in most cases. The pigment change is purely cosmetic and does not make the aloe unsafe or less effective. The plant’s active compounds and therapeutic properties remain intact.

As long as the aloe was processed safely and does not give off a rancid odor, the color shift does not indicate spoilage. The pink aloe gel remainsusable and beneficial.

Other Potential Causes

While oxidation is the most common reason for color changes, there are a couple other things that could potentially turn aloe vera pink:

• Bacterial growth - Bacteria introduced during processing could cause color changes and eventually spoil the product.
• pH imbalance - Improper processing methods may alter the pH, leading to pigment alterations.
• Plant stresses - Environmental factors may cause the leaves to develop more phenolic compounds and anthraquinones, resulting in a pinkish tint.

However, these causes are quite rare in commercial aloe products. If the gel has an off smell or texture, it may be best to discard it.

How to Prevent Color Changes

Storing aloe vera gel properly can help minimize oxidation and color changes:

• Keep gel sealed in an opaque, airtight container.
• Squeeze excess air out before sealing.
• Refrigerate after opening.
• Use within 1 year of purchase.
• Never store aloe gel at high temperatures or expose to direct sunlight.

Making your own aloe vera gel rather than buying it may also provide more control over proper processing and storage.

Look Beyond Color

While the pinkish tinge may be unappetizing, do not let color alone determine whether your aloe vera gel has truly gone bad. Evaluate it based on multiple factors:

• Smell - Should have a fresh, plant-like scent.
• Texture - Should be a smooth, mucilaginous gel.
• Color - Can range from clear to various shades of pink or yellow.
• Taste - Should be mildly bitter but palatable.

An aloe vera gel that smells, looks, and tastes off should be discarded. But a natural pink hue alone does not mean the product is spoiled.

Aloe Vera 101: A Complete Guide

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Today, aloe vera is one of the most popular natural healing ingredients worldwide.

Here is a comprehensive guide to aloe vera, its key active compounds, health benefits, and proper usage.

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera, also known as the “true or medicinal aloe,” is a species of the Aloe plant native to the Arabian peninsula. It is a stemless, drought-resistant succulent with thick, spiky leaves full of clear gel.

Aloe leaves contain a clear, mucilaginous gel that consists of around 98-99% water. This gel also contains over 75 bioactive compounds like vitamins, minerals, enzymes, sugars, phenolic compounds, and amino acids.

Key Active Compounds

Research has identified multiple components of aloe vera gel that provide its therapeutic properties:

• Aloe polysaccharides - Complex sugars with anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulating, and antioxidant effects.
• Anthraquinones - Phenolic compounds with antiseptic, pain-relieving, and laxative effects.
• Vitamins - Aloe gel contains vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 (niacin), B6, choline, folic acid, and beta-carotene.
• Minerals - Including calcium, sodium, iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, chromium, manganese, potassium, and selenium.

Potential Health Benefits

Decades of research suggest aloe vera may provide the following health benefits:

• Speeds wound healing and aids burns
• Soothes rashes, cold sores, and skin irritation
• Reduces inflammation and swelling
• Boosts immunity and fights infections
• Improves digestion and eases constipation
• Regulates blood sugar and lowers cholesterol
• Hydrates skin and increases elasticity
• Treats mouth ulcers and gingivitis

Ways to Use Aloe Vera

There are endless ways to harness aloe’s healing potential. Some popular uses include:

• Skin moisturizer - Apply pure aloe gel to hydrate and soothe skin.
• Aftershave - Reduce razor irritation and inflammation.
• Sunburn relief - Cool sunburned skin with direct application of gel.
• Drinks and smoothies - Add aloe juice or chunks of gel for health benefits.
• Mouthwash - Swish pure gel around mouth to relieve mouth ulcers.
• Conditioner - Comb through hair and rinse out to moisturize and detangle.

Buying & Storage Tips

When purchasing aloe vera gel or juice, follow these guidelines:

• Check for purity. Many products contain added ingredients.
• Avoid aloin, the laxative compound in the aloe latex.
• Refrigerate after opening to extend shelf life.
• Look for organic, sustainably harvested products.
• Drink aloe juice within a year of production.

Proper storage keeps aloe vera gel fresh and effective for longer.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.