Natural colours overtake synthetic

A new report into the food colours market combining market expertise from Mintel and Leatherhead Food Research reveals that, for the first time in 2011, the value of natural colours has overtaken that of artificial/synthetic colours globally. The share of the total food colours market taken by natural varieties has increased from just over a third (34%) in 2007 to nearly 39% in 2011.

In contrast, growth within the artificial/synthetic colours market has been more modest, with value sales increasing by less than 4% between 2007 and 2011.

These results will not be surprising to most of us. Following the Southampton Six study in 2008 consumers have been particularly vocal in their dislike of artificial colours and flavours. Manufacturers have no choice but to give the consumer what they want.

The trend for natural shows no sign of slowing down and in the future I think confectionery will only contain natural ingredients – especially considering huge confectionery manufacturers such as NestlĂ© have taken the step to remove all artificial ingredients from their products.

 

 

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