The only gel I've ever used is Hammer Gel. I used to use it frequently on rides, but changed on-bike nutrition and seldom use it now. Be that as it may, I put my Hammer Gel in a . . . Hammer Flask! I have a pint of Hammer Gel that's been in my fridge for years, and a flask of Hammer Gel that I replenish from the pint when it gets about half used. It's never been washed or cleaned out, and it's also been in the fridge for years. I take it out, take it on a ride or ski or run or whatever, use some or not, bring it back and put it back in the fridge. No problems whatsoever. Do this. Plus it's inexpensive for a gel, no mess, no package, nice in a jersey pocket or in its own stem holder, tastes good, available in many flavors including Expresso and is just plain good stuff.