Abstract: A method is provided for removing harmful organic compounds from the aluminate liquor obtained in the production of alumina according to the Bayer process. A magnesium obtained is added to the aluminate liquor to form a hydroxide mixture containing magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide which precipitates from the aluminate liquor. The precipitated mixture is maintained in the aluminate liquor, while being stirred, until at least a part of the organic compounds have been eliminated from the aluminate liquor. The hydroxide mixture containing the organic compounds then is separated from the aluminate liquor.