Aloe Vera Gel
Decolorized inner leaf aloe is GRAS for food use. Whole-leaf, non-decolorized aloe extract contains aloin (anthraquinones) which the National Toxicology Program found caused intestinal tumors in rats; California Prop 65 lists aloe vera, non-decolorized whole leaf extract.
What it is
The clear inner leaf gel of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller), used in beverages and foods. Decolorized (purified) aloe vera inner leaf is the food-grade form; whole-leaf aloe contains anthraquinones (aloin) which are laxative.
Beverage ingredient; provides texture and perceived health benefits in functional drinks.
Why it's flagged
- Whole-leaf, non-decolorized form contains aloin (IARC Group 2B; NTP found intestinal tumors in rats)
- Laxative effect from non-decolorized forms
What regulators actually say
"Aloe ingredients (aloe extract, aloe flower extract) are not generally recognized as safe and effective for OTC use as stimulant laxatives."
"Aloe vera, non-decolorized whole leaf extract is classified by IARC in Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans)."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Decolorized aloe vera leaf extract GRAS via self-affirmation; whole-leaf aloe latex banned in OTC laxatives (21 CFR 310.545)
European Union — EFSA
Hydroxyanthracene derivatives from aloe leaf preparations not permitted in food (Regulation 2021/468)
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