Aluminum hydroxycarbonate gel

Continuous production of aluminum hydroxycarbonate gel by continuous reaction of aluminum salt solution with mixed alkaline carbonate and bicarbonate solution under homogeneous conditions in a relatively small reaction vessel, and continuing the reaction in a subsequent reaction vessel under controlled pH. The product gel is separated from the non-aluminum cation containing reaction mixture within less than about 6 hours, whereby formation of poorly soluble addition reaction products such as dihydroxy aluminium sodium carbonate, which contribute undesired non-aluminum cations to the gel product, is reduced. The aluminum salt solution is adjusted in pH by adding to it a portion of the mixed carbonate and bicarbonate solution to obtain a clear solution of pH 3.5 to 4.0. This results in a smooth, creamy gel with less objectionable chalky mouth feel.