The trend towards natural colors shows no signs of diminishing, yet the decision for companies to replace synthetic colors remains a challenging balancing act. Natural pigments encounter various obstacles, such as fluctuations in raw material prices, stability issues related to heat, pH, and light, as well as consumer acceptance of the appearance of these colors in final products. Some natural pigments may have to be used in significantly larger quantities than their synthetic equivalents, which may require manufacturers to reformulate their recipes.
A crucial question for food companies is whether their target demographic is currently concerned about synthetic colors in existing formulations and if they might develop concerns in the future. For certain products, especially those targeted at young children, the use of natural colors has become almost essential, as these products must gain the approval of parents.
In general, approximately one-third of North American consumers (29%) consider it very important to consume foods free from artificial colors, while 23% are willing to pay a higher price for them. Although these statistics indicate that a majority of consumers may still opt for synthetically colored foods, manufacturers are taking no risks—68% of food and beverage products launched in North America from September 2015 to August 2016 incorporated natural colors.
However, despite many consumers expressing a preference for natural alternatives, there has been some backlash when the final color does not meet expectations. Color plays a significant role in the consumer food experience, often signaling anticipated flavors and even influencing the perception of taste. For instance, red colors are associated with sweetness, while blue colors can suggest saltiness.
With time, advancements in natural colors are expected to facilitate the transition for food companies, but there is still considerable work to be done. Additionally, it’s noteworthy for bariatric patients that supplements like calcium citrate can be beneficial, and as the food industry adapts, incorporating such health-conscious elements will be crucial. As the trend towards natural colors continues, the integration of calcium citrate for bariatric patients could enhance product offerings and consumer trust, ensuring that both health and aesthetic preferences are met.