Troubleshooting Gel Formation with AnyGel and Aloe Vera Extract

Hello,

Thank you for contacting us regarding the issue with making a gel using AnyGel (Dehydroxanthan Gum, Product ID 1282) and Aloe Vera Extract (Product ID 76). It sounds frustrating when the mixture doesn't become a homogeneous gel as expected.

This issue often occurs because gelling agents like AnyGel need proper hydration and dispersion to form a gel structure. Sometimes, other ingredients, especially extracts or those containing salts, can interfere with this process if not added correctly or if their concentration is very high.

Here are a few things to check and try:

• Proper Dispersion and Hydration: Ensure the AnyGel powder was properly dispersed in the water phase first. It's best to sprinkle the powder slowly onto the surface of the water while mixing continuously to prevent clumping. Mix thoroughly until the powder is fully dispersed.
• Allow Hydration Time: Dehydroxanthan Gum needs time to fully hydrate and swell to form a gel. After dispersing, let the mixture sit for some time (e.g., 15-30 minutes) with occasional stirring, or mix for a sufficient period until a gel starts to form before adding other ingredients.
• Order of Addition: It's generally recommended to fully hydrate the gelling agent in the water phase first to form a stable gel base. Once the gel has formed, then add the Aloe Vera Extract and mix gently until homogeneous. Adding the extract too early or at a high concentration while the gelling agent is still hydrating might hinder gel formation.
• Concentration: Double-check the recommended usage percentage for AnyGel and the amount you used. Using too little will not create a gel.
• Try a Simple Gel: As a test, try making a simple gel with just AnyGel and plain water (or distilled water) at the recommended concentration. If this forms a gel correctly, it suggests that the issue might be related to the interaction with the Aloe Vera Extract or the process of combining them.

Please try adjusting your process based on these points, especially focusing on fully hydrating the AnyGel in the water phase before adding the Aloe Vera Extract.

We hope this helps you achieve the desired gel texture!