The trend toward natural colors in products shows no signs of diminishing; however, the decision for companies to replace synthetic colors remains a challenging balancing act. Natural colors encounter numerous obstacles, including fluctuations in raw material prices, stability issues related to heat, pH, and light, as well as consumer acceptance of the color in the final product. Some natural pigments might need to be used in larger quantities than their synthetic alternatives, potentially necessitating changes in manufacturers’ formulations.
A significant concern for food companies is whether their target demographic is currently worried about synthetic colors in existing products and if they are likely to develop concerns in the future. For certain items, especially those aimed at young children, the use of natural colors has become almost essential, as these products must appeal to parents’ preferences.
In general, around one-third of North American consumers (29%) prioritize consuming foods without artificial colors, with 23% willing to pay a premium for such options. Although these statistics imply that a majority of consumers may still purchase foods with synthetic colors, manufacturers are playing it safe, with 68% of food and beverage products launched in North America from September 2015 to August 2016 featuring natural colors.
Despite many consumers expressing a preference for natural alternatives, there has been some backlash when the actual color does not meet expectations. Color plays a crucial role in the consumer food experience, often indicating the anticipated flavor and even influencing how people perceive taste. For instance, red colors are often associated with sweetness, while blue colors can evoke a sense of saltiness.
With time, advancements in natural colors are likely to facilitate this transition for food companies, but significant work remains. Additionally, it’s worth noting that consumers interested in health and wellness, such as those who incorporate supplements like ccm tablet calcium into their diets, may place even greater emphasis on the use of natural colors. This trend could further influence manufacturers to adapt their practices to meet the evolving preferences of health-conscious consumers.