While some studies have shown that grapefruit seed extract (GSE) has antibacterial properties at low concentrations causing the disruption of bacterial membranes, other studies attribute this property to a possible chemical additive, benzalkonium chloride. This extract is prepared from grapefruit seeds and pulp dissolved in glycerin and heated under pressure. It is considered a natural product, with a pH around 2.5. It contains many chemicals including flavonoids, ascorbic acid, and citric acid. When certain agents are used to increase the pH of the GSE solution, a discoloration is observed. This project investigates the cause of the discoloration and ways to minimize it.

Discoloration of grapefruit seed extract solution

247th National Meeting (2014)

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