Natural blue EXBERRY® colors for food and drink
Blue is an unexpected and photogenic color. It can help manufacturers provide new and unique food and beverage experiences that consumers can capture and share on social media. EXBERRY® offers vibrant, plant-based blue shades that make these creations both visually stunning and naturally appealing.
Use blue for a sense of mystery and excitement
A global survey found that blue is most strongly associated with relief and contentment.[1] It is a color that is seen to reduce stress and induce peace and calm while, in the marketing world, it is widely used to create a sense of security and trust.
Research shows that global consumers do not strongly correlate it to bitter, salty, sour, sweet, or umami flavors.[2] Due to the lack of preconceptions around blue flavors, it can be used to generate a sense of mystery and excitement.
EXBERRY® blues are made from the superfood spirulina
Spirulina can provide an excellent alternative to artificial and additive blue colorants.
Understanding technical factors is vital when working with spirulina
- Spirulina contains the natural pigment phycocyanin, which can be used to achieve vibrant blue shades
- To get the best out of spirulina-based colors, it is important to protect the phycocyanin from high temperatures and acid during the manufacturing process
- Syrups can be used to help insulate the phycocyanin
EXBERRY® pioneered the production of natural blue food colors made from spirulina and we have the know-how to ensure you get the results you need.
EXBERRY® blues are suitable for many applications
- Confectionery
- Beverages
- Cereals & snacks
- Bakery
- Dairy & plant-based dairy
- Savory
Each application has its own technical considerations. For example, the EXBERRY® Blue Beverage Solution can be used to allow spirulina to remain temperature- and acid-stable in RTD beverages.
As a pioneer in plant-based colors, we help you overcome your challenges and achieve exceptional red shades.
EXBERRY® blues are available in a range of formats
- Liquid
- Powder
- Micronized powder
- Oil-dispersible
- Hard-panning
- Organic liquid
- Organic powder
Our experts are always available to advise you on the best format to choose for natural blue food coloring. Depending on the application and recipe, the recommended EXBERRY® format will be different.
Get expert advice tailored to your project
We have worked with plant-based colors for over 40 years. Our experts have the knowledge and experience to identify the ideal option for your project.
References
[1] Johannes Gutenberg University ‘Colors evoke similar feelings around the world’ (2020)
[2] Spence, C. et al. ‘On tasty colours and colourful tastes? Assessing, explaining, and utilizing crossmodal correspondences between colours and basic tastes’ Flavour (2015)