Preservatives for Fresh Natural Ingredients

Preserving fresh natural ingredients like pureed aloe vera or papaya can be challenging because they provide an excellent environment for microbial growth. It is crucial to use an effective preservative system and ideally perform a challenge test to ensure stability and safety.

Here are some preservatives that are suitable for use with natural ingredients and are water-soluble, which is necessary for fresh purees:

• NaturePreserve™ Ultra (Gluconolactone & Sodium Benzoate): A 100% natural preservative system effective in the pH range of 3-6. It is a powder that dissolves in water.
• PaeoniaPreserve™ (Natural Preservative): Derived from the Paeonia root, this is a natural liquid preservative. It should be added in the final step and avoid heat above 60°C.
• Probio-Protect™ (Lactobacillus Ferment Preservative): A probiotic-derived preservative that is water-soluble. It also offers moisturizing benefits. Avoid heat during mixing.
• Global Guard™ 221 (pH 2-7, Natural): A natural, water-soluble, broad-spectrum preservative effective in a wide pH range of 2-7. Avoid heat above 45°C.
• Coco-Preserve™ (Preservative from Coconut Extract): A natural origin preservative from coconut extract. It is water-soluble, broad-spectrum, and works in a pH range of 4-8. Avoid heat above 50°C.
• NaturePreserve™ LB2: A natural origin preservative effective against bacteria and fungi, particularly at low pH (2.0-6.5). It is water-soluble. Avoid heat above 50°C.
• Preserve-BSB™ (eq. Optiphen BSB-W): This system uses synthetic versions of naturally occurring substances (Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate). It is water-soluble and effective up to pH 5.5.

When using these preservatives with fresh purees, consider the natural pH of the puree and choose a preservative that works within that range, or adjust the pH if necessary. Always follow the recommended usage rate for the specific preservative. Due to the high risk of microbial contamination with fresh plant material, performing a challenge test on your final formulation is highly recommended before widespread use or sale.