Natural Colors
AdditiveOverview
Natural colors derived from sources like annatto seeds and beet extracts are increasingly used in ultra-processed foods as alternatives to synthetic colors. These ingredients undergo industrial extraction processes using solvents to achieve concentrated color properties suitable for manufacturing.
888,523
Products contain this
57,378
Ingredient variations
Common forms
Beet juice, turmeric, paprika, caramel color, annatto
Function
Natural colors provide plant-based coloration while meeting consumer demand for recognizable ingredient names, though they require higher usage levels than synthetic alternatives. They often necessitate additional processing steps, stabilizers, or protective packaging due to greater sensitivity to pH changes.
Sources
Annatto extract comes from Bixa Orellana seed epidermis through solvent extraction processes, while beet extract involves industrial concentration and standardization procedures. These extraction methods often employ petroleum-derived solvents and specialized equipment to maximize color yield.
Health Considerations
While generally considered safer than synthetic alternatives, natural colors may still contain processing residues from extraction solvents and stabilizing compounds. Annatto specifically may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with existing food allergies.
Regulatory
Natural colors like annatto are FDA-exempt from certification requirements despite undergoing significant industrial processing for extraction and concentration. The FDA defines these as natural based on source material rather than processing methods employed during manufacture.
Common Variations (50 total)
Products Containing Natural Colors
Showing 12 of 888,523 products, sorted by processing level