Food Colors in the Clean-label Era

Synthetic pigments are rapidly losing ground amid tough global regulations and rising demand for transparency and clean-label. 

• FDA revoked Red No. 3 in 2025; phase-out of Citrus Red No. 2 and Orange B underway 

• Full phase-out of petroleum-based synthetic food dyes in the US expected by 2026 

• 75% of global consumers are willing to pay more for clean-label, artificial color-free products 

The Challenge 

While the shift to natural pigments aligns with clean-label demand and unlocks new value, it introduces formulation trade-offs – including stability, color consistency, off-notes, and supply variability that can compromise product quality, brand trust, and scalability if not addressed strategically. 

 Our latest report explores: 

• Vulnerability Mapping: Identify synthetic pigments at risk, with a focus on urgent reformulation priorities in the red color spectrum 

• Red Pigment Deep Dive: Benchmark natural alternatives on CLEAR Framework encompassing cost, efficacy, sensory impact, applications, and purity & scalability 

• Technology Landscape: Explore critical innovation stages – from identification and extraction to delivery and stabilization 

• Strategic Action Zones: A four-quadrant framework to prioritize immediate actions, scenario planning, and optimization opportunities 

• Executive Imperatives: R&D, procurement, and marketing priorities to de-risk transitions and strengthen clean-label positioning