The Simple Ingredients in Original Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Juice
For the classic, unflavored version of Fruit of the Earth aloe vera juice, the ingredient list is intentionally minimal, emphasizing the core component of pure aloe. Unlike some products that may contain numerous additives, this juice focuses on delivering a straightforward experience. The three key ingredients found on the label are Organic Aloe Vera Gel, Citric Acid, and Sodium Benzoate. These work in concert to provide the product's flavor profile, stability, and longevity.
Organic Aloe Vera Gel
This is the star of the show. Sourced from the inner gel fillet of the aloe plant, this component is made from a blend of water and concentrated aloe vera gel. According to the manufacturer, the juice contains an impressive 99.8% aloe vera. This means that the vast majority of what you are consuming is the pure extract of the aloe plant. The aloe used is certified organic, ensuring it meets specific agricultural standards. It is noted that due to natural variations, the color and taste of the juice may fluctuate slightly between batches, a normal occurrence for natural products.
Citric Acid
This colorless, odorless compound is a weak organic acid that gives the juice a tart, refreshing taste and acts as a preservative and pH regulator. In the food and beverage industry, citric acid serves multiple functions: it enhances flavor, helps maintain product freshness by preventing oxidation, and adjusts the pH to an acidic level that is inhospitable to bacteria growth. The citric acid used in packaged foods like this juice is typically a manufactured version created through fermentation, not directly extracted from fruit.
Sodium Benzoate
This is a well-known food preservative used to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, molds, and yeasts, particularly in acidic environments. Used in concentrations of 1/10 of 1% in this juice, sodium benzoate is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, its use has generated some public debate, particularly regarding its potential to react with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) to form small amounts of benzene, a known carcinogen. The manufacturer's formula for the original juice does not include vitamin C, but it's an important consideration for consumers.
A Look at the Wild Berry Aloe Vera Juice
For those who prefer a different flavor profile, Fruit of the Earth offers a Wild Berry version that includes several additional ingredients to create its distinct taste.
Added Flavors and Sweeteners
Beyond the aloe gel, the wild berry flavor incorporates a range of natural ingredients. The ingredient list includes fructose, natural flavors derived from strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, elderberry, and raspberry juices, as well as stevia and purple carrot extract. This combination provides the juice's characteristic sweetness and rich berry flavor without relying on added sugars or thickeners. The inclusion of fructose and stevia serves to both sweeten the product and balance the tartness from the fruit juices and citric acid.
Juice vs. Gel: A Critical Distinction
When researching Fruit of the Earth products, it is important to distinguish between the edible aloe vera juice and the topical aloe vera gel, as they have different ingredient lists and intended uses. The juice is for consumption, while the gel is for external application on the skin.
Ingredients in Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel
In contrast to the simple edible juice, the 100% gel product contains a more complex array of ingredients suited for a topical application. These include ingredients for conditioning and thickening, such as Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Carbomer, Diazolidinyl Urea, and Tocopheryl Acetate. Some of these, like Carbomer, are used to create the gel consistency, while others, like DMDM Hydantoin and Diazolidinyl Urea, act as preservatives to extend shelf life for cosmetic purposes. It's crucial to read the label carefully to ensure you are using the correct product for your needs.
Understanding the Role of Additives
While some consumers seek out products with the shortest ingredient list possible, understanding the function of additives is key to making informed decisions. For Fruit of the Earth's aloe vera juice, the additives serve important purposes for safety and stability.
- Preservation: Sodium benzoate is the primary preservative, inhibiting the growth of microorganisms that could cause spoilage and potentially lead to illness. Its effectiveness is boosted by the acidic environment created by citric acid.
- Flavor and Palatability: Citric acid adds a refreshing tartness that cuts through the slightly bitter or earthy taste of pure aloe vera, making it more palatable for a wider audience. For the wild berry flavor, the blend of natural juices, fructose, and stevia achieves this same goal in a different way.
- pH Regulation: The acidity provided by citric acid is critical for the function of the sodium benzoate preservative. Together, they create a stable and safe product with an extended shelf life.
Is Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Juice for You? A Comparison
| Feature | Original Aloe Vera Juice | Wild Berry Aloe Vera Juice |
|---|---|---|
| Core Ingredients | Organic Aloe Vera Gel, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate | Organic Aloe Vera Gel, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate |
| Added Flavors/Sweeteners | None | Fructose, Stevia, Natural Fruit Flavors, Purple Carrot Extract |
| Sweeteners | None | Fructose and Stevia |
| Sugar Content | Sugar-free | Contains fructose from fruit juices |
| Primary Purpose | Simple, pure aloe vera consumption | Flavored, more palatable aloe vera drink |
Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Juice
At its core, Fruit of the Earth aloe vera juice is a simple beverage built on the foundation of organic aloe vera gel. The inclusion of citric acid for flavor and pH regulation, along with sodium benzoate as a preservative, ensures the product's safety and shelf stability. For those who prefer a flavored option, the wild berry variant adds natural juices and sweeteners for an enhanced taste experience. While the ingredient lists are minimal, particularly for the original version, it is still crucial for consumers to read labels and be aware of any potential concerns, such as distinguishing the edible juice from the topical gel, to make the best choice for their personal wellness goals. The manufacturer provides transparency about ingredients and production methods, helping consumers to navigate their product line confidently.
For more information on the wide-ranging applications of aloe vera in health and wellness, consult authoritative resources such as the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH).
