Big Industry Says Goodbye to Synthetic Dyes

The shift toward clean labels is not a passing trend but a profound transformation in the food industry. A clear example is the recent announcements from giants like General Mills and Kraft Heinz, who confirmed their commitment to eliminate synthetic food dyes from their U.S. product lines by 2027. This marks a turning point and opens new opportunities for producers seeking natural, effective, and safe alternatives.

Why Are Synthetic Dyes Disappearing?

For decades, synthetic dyes like Red 40 or Blue 1 were widely used due to their low cost and stability. However, numerous studies have raised concerns about their safety, linking them to allergic reactions, childhood hyperactivity, and other adverse effects. At the same time, consumers are increasingly demanding—today, over 60% prefer products with natural, recognizable ingredients on the label.

This consumer pressure is driving major brands to rethink their formulations. Flavor alone is no longer enough—transparency and responsibility are now essential to the brand experience.

A Chance to Innovate

The removal of artificial dyes opens the door to innovative solutions based on natural ingredients. Farbe Naturals is at the forefront of this transition, offering a wide range of natural pigments that not only meet safety standards but also perform well across diverse food applications.

Some standout examples include:

• Spirulina Blue: A pigment extracted from spirulina that delivers a bright, natural blue color—ideal for dairy, confectionery, desserts, and plant-based beverages. It's allergen-free and clean-label compliant.
• Anthocyanins: Derived from fruits such as grapes, black carrots, and purple cabbage, these molecules provide shades ranging from red to violet with excellent stability in acidic environments. Widely used in yogurt, beverages, and baked goods.
• Beta-carotene: Plant-based pigments that offer a warm color range from yellow to orange. Ideal for products like snacks, cold cuts, drinks, and baked goods, thanks to their excellent heat and light stability.

Benefits Beyond Color

Choosing natural colorants not only enhances brand perception but also brings functional benefits. Many of these pigments have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reinforcing the value proposition of healthier and more conscious products.

Moreover, by incorporating plant-based ingredients and responsible processes, brands strengthen their sustainability commitment—a factor that is increasingly important to today’s consumers.

Farbe Naturals: Your Partner in Transition

At Farbe Naturals, we support food producers through this change by offering technical guidance, customized solutions, and a line of natural colorants that are stable, functional, and aligned with the highest international standards.

From warm tones like turmeric or beta-carotene to vibrant blues like spirulina or huito, our natural palette enables the creation of more appealing, healthy, and sustainable foods.

Ready to make the switch to natural color?
Discover our solutions at https://farbenaturals.com/