Report says natural is the way forward

Food and drinks manufacturers across the world are turning in greater numbers towards natural colorings for inclusion within their products, as consumers increasingly shun foodstuffs containing artificial ingredients and additives, according to Leatherhead Food International report.

Entitled Global Market for Food Colours, the report finds the trend to drive demand for coloring foodstuffs, which are increasingly coming into favor since they are not classed as additives and therefore require no E number.

The global market for food colors grew by 2.1% during 2009 to reach $1,450 million, and has risen by 16% in value terms compared with levels in 2005.

The world market for natural colors has increased by almost 35% in value terms during the same period.

The food industry accounts for more than two-thirds (67%) of the global market, ahead of soft drinks (28%) and alcoholic beverages (5%).

Although sales remain heavily skewed towards Europe and the US (together accounting for 64% of sales), demand is rising in countries where sales of processed foods are growing, such as China, India and Brazil.