Spirulina, a microalgae containing a naturally occurring blue pigment called phycocyanin, is currently the only clean-label blue colorant approved for confectionery applications.

According to a 2019 Innova Consumer Survey, 63% of global consumers are increasingly trying to incorporate plant ingredients in the diet. Not surprisingly, sauce, dressing and spread manufacturers have been finding creative ways to address the trend as well.

Health and wellness continues to be a catalyst for innovation, but what that term means for consumers is a moving target and is impacted by a multitude of factors such as individual need states, age, and socioeconomic status.

The forecast comes from GNT Group, supplier of EXBERRY® Coloring Foods. Company experts say demand for Shades of Aqua will also be powered several trends—including by a quest for holistic wellbeing1; and demand for new and unique food & beverage experiences that will pop out when shared on social media.

They are available in both standard and micronized powder form. The new EXBERRY® high intensity blues are offered with a choice of carriers—including maltodextrin or sugar. They also are guaranteed to be trehalose-free, ensuring good levels of consumer acceptance.

The newly certified organic color spectrum includes a blue shade obtained from spirulina; a pink/reddish shade from red beet; as well as other appealing, naturally occurring hues such as yellow, orange, red and purple. 

It seems clear that transition to natural is global in nature. According to Mintel, more than 75% of the food and drink products launched globally in the first three quarters of 2018 used colors from natural sources versus synthetic options.

Spirulina, commonly known as blue-green algae, is a photosynthetic bacteria valued for its rich nutritional profile and natural coloring properties, and it is one of two species of microalgae that are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.

Color manufacturers are helping food, beverage processors develop the next generation of clean label products.

CrunchLina is a snack cluster made of farm fresh spirulina, cashews, cinnamon, flaxseed, pecans, raisins, and sunflower seeds.