A Manufacturer’s Guide to Natural Colors for Candy & Confectionery

Color plays an important role in the appeal of candy. Consumers are attracted to bright and vibrant hues that catch their attention and create a sense of excitement. Candy manufacturers have long recognized this and have used a variety of dyes and synthetic colorants to achieve the desired effect.

However, there is growing concern over the use of artificial colors in food, particularly in candy that is popular among children. Some studies have linked synthetic colors to hyperactivity and other behavioral issues in children. As a result, many consumers are now looking for natural alternatives when it comes to color in their food, including candy. The use of natural color in candy has become increasingly popular in recent years. Many manufacturers are now turning to natural colors for candy derived from fruits, vegetables, and other natural sources. This guide will not only explain the importance of natural colors used in candy but will also provide a practical overview of the best natural colors, from vibrant reds and yellows to stunning blues and greens, and offer guidance on choosing the right color for your specific confectionery application.

Building Your Palette: Top Natural Colors for Confectionery

• Vibrant Reds & Pinks: These shades are typically sourced from beetroot powder, or anthocyanins, which can be extracted from fruits and vegetables like aronia berries, purple carrots, or hibiscus.
• Bright Yellows & Oranges: Turmeric and beta-carotene are excellent sources for these warm tones. Safflower is another popular choice, particularly for its vibrant yellow hue.
• Stunning Blues: One such natural colorant that has gained popularity in the food industry is spirulina extract. Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that grows in freshwater and is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It is also a rich source of phycocyanin, a natural blue pigment that can be extracted and used as a food colorant. Spirulina extract has a number of advantages over synthetic colorants. First, it is completely natural and does not contain any artificial additives or chemicals. This makes it a safer and healthier option for consumers, particularly children.
• Natural Greens: Pure greens are most often achieved with chlorophyllin, which is extracted from green plants. A vibrant green can also be created by expertly blending natural colors for candy, specifically a clean-tasting blue spirulina with a natural yellow like safflower or turmeric.
• Rich Purples: These are often derived from purple carrot, sweet potato, or blends of red and blue anthocyanins.

Formulation Cheat Sheet: Matching Natural Colors to Your Candy

Let’s Create Your Perfect Color

Choosing the right natural colors for candy can be complex. Stability, pH, flavor interaction, and cost all play a role. Binmei’s team of experts is here to help. We don’t just sell colors; we provide complete formulation solutions. The use of natural colorants in candy and other confectionery products is not only a response to consumer demand for healthier and more natural options but also reflects a broader trend in the food industry. As consumers become more educated about the potential health effects of synthetic additives and chemicals, they are increasingly looking for products that are made with natural, whole ingredients.

Candy manufacturers who embrace this trend and use natural colorants in their products will be well-positioned to meet the demands of consumers who are looking for healthier and more natural options. This not only benefits consumers but also the manufacturers themselves, as they can differentiate their products and appeal to a wider range of consumers.

In addition to candy, natural colorants are also being used in other types of confectionery, including gum and nutrition bars. Gum manufacturers are using natural colorants to create a range of colorful gum products, from fruity flavors to minty fresh breath gums. Nutrition bars are also using natural colorants to create appealing products that are both healthy and visually appealing.

Spirulina extract has a number of advantages over synthetic colorants. First, it is completely natural and does not contain any artificial additives or chemicals. This makes it a safer and healthier option for consumers, particularly children. Second, spirulina extract can be used to create a range of vibrant colors, including blue, green, and purple. This allows manufacturers to create a variety of colorful candies without relying on synthetic colorants.

The use of spirulina extract in candy is not limited to traditional hard candies. It can also be used in a range of other candy products, including gummies, jellies, and chewy candies. In fact, spirulina extract is an ideal colorant for chewy candies, as it provides a consistent color throughout the candy and does not bleed or fade over time.

In conclusion, natural color and candy go hand in hand. Consumers are attracted to bright and vibrant colors, but they also want to know that the ingredients in their candy are safe and healthy. The use of natural colorants, such as spirulina extract, provides a safe and healthy alternative to synthetic colorants, while also allowing candy manufacturers to create a range of colorful and appealing products. As the demand for natural and healthy food options continues to grow, the use of natural colors in candy and other confectionery products will become increasingly important.