Tag: Plant based coloring

According to the Organic Trade Association, 82% of U.S. households purchase organic products, indicating a growing demand for natural ingredients. This shift toward clean-label products has many bakers asking: what sprinkles have no artificial colors, and what natural alternatives can achieve a vibrant, celebratory look?

A single pound of carmine pigment requires the crushing of approximately 70,000 cochineal insects, a fact that highlights why carmine is a non-vegan ingredient derived from animals. Because of its insect origin, the term "vegan carmine" is a contradiction, serving only as a shorthand for the ethical, animal-free red colorants that manufacturers are increasingly adopting as replacements.

Carmine, derived from crushed cochineal insects, can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals. This has led to a growing demand for a good alternative to carmine CI 75470, which is also popular for its vegan and clean-label credentials.

According to a recent study, a growing number of consumers are seeking clean-label alternatives to artificial dyes, prompting a greater interest in natural colorants. This shift raises a common question for home cooks and food manufacturers alike: what is a natural yellow food coloring option that is both effective and safe? The answer lies in several plant-based ingredients that offer rich golden and sunny hues without synthetic additives.

According to a 2025 ABC News report, the FDA is revoking its authorization for Red 3 due to health concerns, but Red 40 remains widely used. For those seeking an alternative, the good news is yes, there is food coloring without red 40, offering a variety of vibrant options derived from natural sources.