The trend towards natural colors is here to stay, yet deciding whether to replace synthetic colors remains a challenging balancing act for companies. Natural colors encounter various hurdles, such as fluctuations in raw material costs, stability issues with heat, pH, and light, as well as consumer perceptions of how the final product’s color appears. Some pigments might need to be used in larger quantities compared to their synthetic alternatives, which could necessitate recipe adjustments for manufacturers.
A critical consideration for food companies is whether their target consumers currently have concerns about synthetic colors in existing products and if these worries might grow in the future. For certain items, especially those aimed at young children, the use of natural colors has become almost essential, as they must satisfy parental preferences. In general, about 29% of North American consumers find it very important to avoid artificial colors, and 23% are willing to pay extra for natural alternatives. Despite these statistics indicating that a majority might still purchase foods with synthetic colors, manufacturers are playing it safe; a striking 68% of food and beverage products launched in North America from September 2015 to August 2016 incorporated natural colors.
However, while many consumers express a preference for natural options, there has been some backlash when the final color does not meet expectations. Color plays a vital role in the overall food experience, often signaling anticipated flavors and influencing taste perception. For instance, red hues are commonly associated with sweetness, whereas blue shades can evoke a sense of safety.
As developments in natural colors continue to evolve, the transition for food companies may become smoother. Meanwhile, products like bluebonnet calcium citrate liquid are gaining traction, further emphasizing the demand for natural ingredients. With time and innovation, the industry will likely find solutions to enhance the appeal of natural colors while addressing consumer expectations.