Ingredient
Whole-Food Colors
What is Whole-Food Colors?
Whole-food colors are natural colorings derived from fruits, vegetables, and other edible plants. These colors are made by extracting pigments from whole foods, without the use of synthetic processing, aiming to maintain a more natural profile.
They are used in products to provide a range of vivid colors that enhance the visual appeal while aligning with a clean-label trend preferred by some consumers. Health evidence on whole-food colors is positive, as they are generally considered safe and can be rich in natural antioxidants.
When you see whole-food colors on a label, it indicates a preference for natural coloring agents, which may appeal to those avoiding synthetic additives.
Commonly found in: beverages, candies, baked goods, condiments, dairy-free alternatives
Benefits
- Whole-food colors are free from synthetic additives and are generally considered safe.
- They can offer additional nutritional benefits, such as antioxidants, from their natural sources.
Whole-food colors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA, and are not subject to the same regulations as synthetic colorings.
Research supports the safety of whole-food colors, often highlighting their potential antioxidant benefits.
Whole-food colors are plant-based and suitable for vegan diets.
Scout's take
Colored with carrot concentrate, beet juice, annatto extract, and beta-carotene — all whole-food sources instead of artificial dyes.
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