The trend toward natural colors shows no signs of diminishing, yet companies face a challenging dilemma when considering the replacement of synthetic colors. Natural hues encounter various obstacles, such as fluctuations in raw material prices, stability issues related to heat, pH, and light, as well as consumer acceptance regarding the appearance of these colors in finished products. Some natural pigments may require significantly larger quantities compared to their synthetic alternatives, which could necessitate alterations in manufacturing recipes.
A crucial question for food companies revolves around whether their target consumers are currently concerned about synthetic colors in existing formulations and if there is potential for increased concerns in the future. For certain products, especially those aimed at children, the use of natural colors has nearly become a standard requirement, as these products must satisfy parental preferences.
Overall, around one-third of North American consumers (29%) consider it very important to avoid artificial colors, with 23% willing to pay a premium for products without them. Although these statistics imply that a majority of consumers might still purchase foods with synthetic colors, manufacturers are not taking any chances — 68% of food and beverage products introduced in North America between September 2015 and August 2016 featured natural colors.
However, despite a general preference for natural options, there has been some resistance when the final color does not meet consumer expectations. Color plays a significant role in the consumer food experience, often indicating the anticipated flavor and even altering perceptions of taste. For instance, red colors are frequently associated with sweetness, while blue hues can evoke a sense of saltiness.
With time, advancements in natural colors are expected to facilitate the transition for food companies, although there is still much work to be done. Meanwhile, options such as calcium citrate for sale present possibilities for manufacturers looking to innovate with natural ingredients while ensuring they meet consumer demands. The integration of calcium citrate into formulations could potentially enhance the stability of natural colors, further aiding companies in their quest to replace synthetic alternatives.