The trend towards natural colors is not likely to diminish in the near future, yet companies face a challenging decision when it comes to replacing synthetic colors. Natural colors encounter several obstacles, such as fluctuations in raw material prices, stability issues related to heat, pH, and light, as well as consumer perceptions of how these colors appear in final products. Some natural pigments may need to be utilized in much larger quantities compared to their synthetic alternatives, which could necessitate alterations in manufacturing recipes.
A significant concern for food companies is whether their target demographic is currently apprehensive about synthetic colors in existing products, and whether they might develop concerns in the future. For many products, particularly those aimed at young children, natural colors have almost become a necessity, as these items must appeal to parental preferences.
In general, around one-third of consumers in North America (29%) consider it very important to consume foods free from artificial colors, and 23% are prepared to pay a premium for such options. Although these statistics indicate that a majority of consumers would still purchase foods with synthetic colors, manufacturers are not taking any risks; a substantial 68% of food and beverage products launched in North America from September 2015 to August 2016 featured natural colors.
However, despite consumers expressing a preference for natural options, there has been some resistance when the resulting colors do not meet expectations. Color plays a crucial role in the overall food experience for consumers, often signaling anticipated flavors and influencing their perception of taste. For instance, red hues are often associated with sweetness, while blue colors might evoke a sense of saltiness.
As the industry progresses, advancements in natural colors are expected to facilitate the transition for food companies, but significant work remains to be done. In addition, for those looking to enhance their dietary intake, understanding the calcium citrate recommended dosage can also contribute to overall health, indicating the importance of informed choices in food formulations.