The gummy market is in the middle of a color revolution. As the FDA moves to phase out petroleum-based synthetic food dyes, manufacturers are confronting an urgent challenge and an exciting opportunity: transitioning to naturally sourced colors. For many, this is more than a regulatory compliance issue; it’s a chance to embrace cleaner labels, align with evolving consumer values, and future-proof their brands.
This piece explores what’s driving the shift from synthetic to natural colors, the technical challenges involved, and the key strategies successful brands are using to make the transition without sacrificing quality or consistency.
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Natural vs. Synthetic Colors: More Than Just a Label
Synthetic dyes, labeled as FD&C colors like Red No. 40 or Yellow No. 5, are prized for their consistency, stability, and low cost. Derived from petroleum or coal tar, they have been widely used for decades across the food industry. However, as consumer awareness grows and research on potential health impacts circulates, their days appear numbered.
On the other hand, natural colors are derived from plants, vegetables, spices, flowers, and even algae. They connect brands to nature’s palette while supporting clean-label claims. But unlike synthetic dyes, natural pigments are far more sensitive to environmental factors such as pH, heat, light, and oxygen. Their successful integration into gummies requires technical expertise, thoughtful formulation, and reliable sourcing.
When dialed in correctly, natural colors can be just as vibrant and consistent as synthetics, with the added benefits of supporting consumer health and environmental sustainability.
Four Keys to Success in Using Natural Colors
Sourcing the Right Ingredients
Not all natural colorants are created equal. Partnering with reputable, industry-recognized suppliers ensures you receive stable, food-grade products and technical guidance. Avoid grocery-store purchases or small-scale suppliers who may not provide consistency at scale. While minimum order quantities can be high, strong vendor relationships pay dividends in performance and troubleshooting.
Managing pH Sensitivity
Most gummies fall within a pH range of 3.2 to 3.8, which is ideal for microbial stability and gel formation, especially in pectin-based recipes. Depending on pH, natural pigments can shift dramatically in hue, so selecting ones that retain vibrancy in this range is essential. For example, in acidic conditions, anthocyanins from elderberries or purple carrots can maintain a striking red or pink tone.
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Navigating Heat Stability
Gummy production involves heat: roughly 150–170°F for gelatin, and 190–230°F for pectin. While many natural colors can withstand these temperatures, some require extra care. Phycocyanin from spirulina, for instance, breaks down above 160°F, meaning timing and process adjustments are crucial to preserve its vivid blue.
Protecting Color Through Storage and Packaging
Oxygen, light, and moisture are enemies of natural pigments. To extend shelf life, achieve a water activity of 0.60–0.67, store gummies in a cool, dark place, and use opaque or UV-resistant packaging. We recommend conducting shelf-life tests to understand exactly how your chosen colors perform over time.
A Closer Look at Common Natural Pigments
- Anthocyanins (elderberries, purple carrots): Red or pink hues; good heat stability.
- Betalains (beet root): Deep red; good heat stability.
- Phycocyanin (spirulina): Blue; poor heat stability above 160°F.
- Curcumin (turmeric): Bright yellow; good heat stability.
Understanding these profiles helps formulators make strategic choices, often blending colors to achieve the desired shade and performance.
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Beyond Compliance: The Consumer Connection
The move to natural colors isn’t just about meeting new regulations. It’s about connecting with today’s increasingly health-conscious consumer. Shoppers are reading labels, researching ingredients, and
choosing products that align with their values. Brands that invest in natural formulations now will be better positioned to command premium pricing, cultivate loyalty, and stand out in a crowded marketplace.
The Road Ahead
As more states move to ban synthetic dyes and the FDA’s Red Dye No. 3 prohibition takes effect in 2027, the industry has a clear direction: adapt or fall behind. Forward-thinking brands and formulators view this as an opportunity to lead with science-backed solutions and support their partners in making the transition smooth, cost-effective, and brand-enhancing.
Switching from synthetic to natural colors is not a simple ingredient swap. It requires R&D, sourcing strategy, and manufacturing precision. But the payoff is substantial: a cleaner label, stronger consumer trust, and a brand positioned for the future.
Nature offers a full spectrum of possibilities. As an industry, it’s up to us to embrace them with the same creativity and technical skill that has always driven innovation in gummies.
*This article was submitted by a guest contributor. The author is solely responsible for the content.