The trend towards natural colors shows no signs of waning, yet the decision for companies to replace synthetic colors remains a challenging balancing act. Natural colors confront numerous obstacles, such as fluctuations in raw material prices, stability issues regarding heat, pH, and light, as well as consumers’ acceptance of the appearance of these colors in final products. Certain pigments may require significantly larger quantities compared to their synthetic alternatives, which could necessitate adjustments in manufacturers’ formulations.
A crucial consideration for food companies is whether their target demographic is concerned about synthetic colors in their current products and if they might develop concerns in the future. For some items, particularly those aimed at young children, using natural colors has become almost essential, as they must pass parental scrutiny.
Overall, about a third of North American consumers (29%) deem it very important to consume foods free from artificial colors, with 23% willing to pay extra for such products. Although these statistics indicate that a majority of consumers would still purchase foods with synthetic colors, manufacturers are playing it safe—68% of food and beverage products launched in North America from September 2015 to August 2016 incorporated natural colors.
However, even with consumer preferences leaning towards natural options, there has been some resistance when the final color does not meet expectations. Color plays a significant role in the consumer food experience; it often indicates what flavor to anticipate and can even alter flavor perception. For instance, red colors are commonly associated with sweetness, while blue hues can evoke a sense of saltiness.
As advancements in natural colors evolve, the transition for food companies is likely to become smoother. However, there remains considerable work ahead. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like liquid calcium magnesium citrate plus vitamin D3 could enhance product appeal, aligning with the growing consumer demand for healthier options. As the market continues to shift, the inclusion of natural colors alongside beneficial additives like liquid calcium magnesium citrate plus vitamin D3 may become increasingly prevalent, making the balance between natural and synthetic choices even more critical for manufacturers.