Clean-label browns for beverages: EXBERRY® by GNT unveils new concentrates made from caramelized sugar

Monday, February 26, 2024

GNT has launched a new range of plant-based EXBERRY® concentrates that enable manufacturers to achieve clean-label brown shades in low-pH soft drinks.

EXBERRY® Shade Autumn Brown and EXBERRY® Shade Golden Brown can deliver clear reddish-brown and caramel-brown hues in still and carbonated soft drinks.

There is a growing demand for natural brown colors that do not pose any health concerns to consumers or contain any of the 14 allergens specified under the EU Labeling Regulation.

Made using caramelized sugar syrup, the new EXBERRY® browns offer a clean-label solution that is also naturally free from gluten. They can provide an excellent alternative to caramel (E150) in applications including natural colas, energy drinks, and iced lattes.

Helen Vine, Key Account Manager at GNT Group, said: “This new EXBERRY® range was created to meet the rising demand for natural, plant-based browns that can deliver clear shades in beverages. Our concentrates allow brands to maximize their drinks’ appeal with eye-catching colors alongside clean and clear ingredient lists.”

The liquid-based colors are created from edible, non-GMO fruit and vegetables and are suitable for vegan, kosher, and halal diets. EXBERRY® Shade Autumn Brown contains carrot concentrate in addition to the caramelized sugar syrup while EXBERRY® Shade Golden Brown also includes apple concentrate.

Both products provide high-performing, clear solutions with no formation of turbidity or sediment even in acidic beverages with pH levels below 3.0. In addition, they offer excellent light and heat stability and are easy to pump and dose.

Four brown beverages

The new EXBERRY® browns can be used in applications including apple drinks, ginger ale, energy drinks, and natural cola.