Functional Color Fusion

More consumers are demonstrating an interest in personal health management and are buying more functional, health-oriented products. According to Euromonitor International, Chicago, global sales of “better-for-you” foods approached $129 billion in 2004, and the world functional-food market has increased 20% over a two-year period.

Regardless of flavor, the insightful adage that we “eat with our eyes” before ever taking the first bite or sip always applies. Colors, whether bright and vibrant or subtle and elegant, need to logically accent any given application. Functional colors like anthocyanins and turmeric from Chr. Hansen fuse the best of both worlds to deliver natural color and health benefits to a wide range of foods and beverages.

Anthocyanins—natural pigments found in grapes, elderberries, black currants and red cabbage and other fruits and vegetables—add unique, natural shades of red to many products.

Anthocyanins are most vibrant and stable in low-pH foods like beverages and fruit jellies and jams.

Anthocyanins become unstable as pH increases or due to pasteurization.

The ColorFruit™ product range includes anthocyanins with increased stability to processing and fewer ingredient interactions. Both liquid and powder forms are available that create customized shades from red-orange and red to violet- red and purple.

Anthocyanins act as antioxidants and may help prevent coronary heart disease and strokes. Studies show they may have anti-inflammatory properties and have antiviral and antimicrobial activity.

Another functional color, turmeric, which contains the polyphenol curcumin, comes from the rhizomes of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa). Turmeric adds varying shades of yellow, ranging from banana to lemon, to dairy products, confectionery, ice cream, sorbets, baked goods, pickles and savory applications. At high use levels, turmeric oleoresin adds flavor— in addition to color—to curried sausages, pickles, relishes, sauces, dry mixes and fish products. Turmeric is a suitable replacement for FD&C Yellow #5, is stable in most pH ranges and has fair heat stability. However, turmeric can fade in foods packaged in transparent containers. The colors come as water-soluble liquids and powders, as well as oil-soluble liquids. In the CapColors® product line, further processing lends greater light, pH and heat stability to turmeric, as well as bolder, brighter hues.

Traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines have long used turmeric, and modern studies have lent support to its medical merits, which include anti-inflammatory activity and hearthealth benefits.

The functional, natural anthocyanin and turmeric colorants are just two highlights in the range of Chr. Hansen’s health-and-wellness products, which also include other natural colors and phytonutrients, as well as flavors, seasonings, probiotics, natural cures, meat cultures and ingredients for organic applications.