Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a succulent plant with fleshy leaves. The gel-like substance from the inner leaf is extracted and processed for use in food and drink. It is often purified and filtered to remove latex, which can be bitter and has laxative properties.

Manufacturers add aloe vera to foods and drinks for its mild flavour and perceived health benefits. It is commonly found in beverages, including juices and sweetened or artificially sweetened drinks, where it can add texture with small pieces of the plant material.

Aloe vera is not listed as an authorised food additive on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations in Great Britain. When consumed in typical amounts found in food and drink, it is generally considered safe. However, the latex from the outer leaf, if not properly removed during processing, can have laxative effects. EFSA has evaluated certain compounds derived from aloe, but aloe vera itself is not typically regulated as a food additive in the same way as E-numbers.