The trend towards natural colors shows no signs of diminishing; however, the decision for companies to replace synthetic colors remains a challenging balancing act. Natural colors encounter numerous obstacles, such as fluctuations in raw material prices, stability issues related to heat, pH, and light, as well as consumer acceptance of the final appearance of these colors in products. Certain pigments, like ferrous gluconate and carbonyl iron, may need to be used in significantly larger quantities than their synthetic alternatives, which could necessitate adjustments in manufacturing recipes. For instance, ferrous fumarate and iron polymaltose may have different implications for formulation.
A critical question for food companies is whether their target demographic is currently concerned about synthetic colors in their products and whether this concern might grow in the future. For many items, particularly those aimed at young children, natural colors have almost become essential, as they need to satisfy the scrutiny of parents. In North America, approximately 29% of consumers prioritize eating foods without artificial colors, and 23% are willing to pay a premium for such options. While these statistics indicate that a majority of consumers might still purchase foods with synthetic dyes, manufacturers are adopting a cautious approach—68% of food and beverage products introduced in North America between September 2015 and August 2016 utilized natural colors.
Nevertheless, despite a preference for natural alternatives expressed by many consumers, there has been some backlash when the final color does not meet expectations. Color plays a significant role in the food experience, often signaling expected flavors and even altering flavor perceptions. For example, red hues are often associated with sweetness, while blue shades may suggest saltiness.
As advancements in natural colors continue, the transition for food companies is likely to become smoother, though challenges remain. In this evolving landscape, products like Citracal Plus D Petites may also need to consider consumer preferences regarding natural versus synthetic elements, as consumer attitudes towards food coloring could influence the acceptance of dietary supplements as well. Ultimately, while the journey towards fully embracing natural colors is underway, it is clear that there is still considerable work to be done.