Aloe vera: a natural food preservative

Written by Kevin Flatt

Researchers in Spain say they have developed a gel from the tropical aloe vera plant that can be used as an edible coating to prolong the quality and safety of fresh produce. The gel, which does not appear to affect food taste or appearance, shows promise as a safe, natural and environmentally-friendly alternative to conventional synthetic preservatives that are currently applied to produce after harvesting, the researchers say. Composed mostly of polysaccharides, the gel appears to act as a natural barrier to moisture and oxygen, which can speed food deterioration. The study showed that grapes coated with this gel could be preserved for 35 days against 7 days for untreated grapes. (Medical News Today 22/9/2005).

Reference:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=30968