The past 30 years have seen the market demand for food colorants changing in substantial ways, particularly regarding the choice between synthetic and natural colorants. Not so long ago, synthetic colorants were preferred because of several benefits: They are easy to use, deliver bright colors in a variety of food matrices, and perform in consistent and predictable ways. Moreover, they are inexpensive to use.

Color is arguably the most important initial sensory cue we get from a food or beverage. It helps us almost immediately make a preliminary judgement about the desirability, quality, and palatability of what we plan to eat or drink. If the color of an item is “wrong” or off, it can drive the consumer away from even the tastiest treat.