Alcoholic Mix Drinks
Premixed alcoholic drinks can be prepared on any kind of alcohol base and color plays an important role particularly in premixed RTD cocktails. Malt containing / fermented bases can interact with other components making shelf testing an important step.
Formulation
- Use a starting color dosage level between 0.08% w/w – 0.25% w/w taking into consideration the base shade of the drink and the shelf life expectation
- For best results, beverage pH should be <3.3 for red, purple, and pink shades
- Coloring Foods can be considered in combination with any spirit base
Manufacturing process
- Note the order of ingredient addition and add colors during the final stages of production
- Avoid excessive processing
- Rapid cooling helps preserve color
Shelf-life
- Optimal color performance is up to nine months
- UV barriers and full-shrink labels will preserve color vibrancy and can help extend shelf life
- Glass, can and pouch style packaging provide excellent protection over life
- The alcohol content may impact shelf life and color performance