Global Anthocyanin Food Colors Market Size, Share Analysis Report By Form (Powder, Extract, Liquid), By Source (Grapes, Berries, Red Cabbage, Pomegranates, Black Carrots), By Application ( Beverages, Confectionery, Dairy Products, Meat Products, Bakery Products, Others), By Distribution Channel (Direct-to-Consumer, Online Retailers, Supermarkets, Food Processors, Pharmacies, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Anthocyanin Food Colors Market size is expected to be worth around USD 28.7 Bn by 2034, from USD 11.7 Bn in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 9.4% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

The anthocyanin food colors market is witnessing significant growth, driven by several factors. The increasing demand for natural and clean-label ingredients is a key trend, along with growing consumer interest in healthy, plant-based products. Additionally, the expanding use of anthocyanins across various food processing applications is further contributing to the market’s expansion.

Anthocyanins are flavonoid pigments found in fruits, vegetables, and flowers, responsible for vibrant red, blue, and purple colors. Common sources include berries, red cabbage, grapes, hibiscus, black rice, and other plants. Besides their role in color, anthocyanins are known for their antioxidant properties, offering potential health benefits to consumers.

The market for anthocyanin food colors is poised to grow further due to the expanding food and beverage industry. Innovations in extraction and purification technologies are making it easier to obtain and utilize anthocyanins, while the exploration of new applications in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals opens additional avenues for growth.

Key Takeaways

• The Anthocyanin Food Colors Market is projected to grow from USD 11.7 billion in 2024 to USD 28.7 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 9.4%.
• Powder form dominated with over 58.3% market share in 2024 due to its versatility and ease of integration into products.
• Grapes held a leading position in 2024, accounting for more than 38.4% of the market share, primarily due to the high anthocyanin content in grapes.
• Beverages are the leading application segment, capturing more than 43.3% of the market in 2024 due to the growing demand for natural colorants in drinks.
• Food Processors dominated with a 47.1% share in 2024, driven by the demand for natural ingredients in food products.
• North America held the largest market share of approximately 44.6% in 2023, driven by health-conscious consumer trends.

By Form

In 2024, Powder held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 58.3% share of the anthocyanin food colors market. This form is highly favored due to its versatility and ease of use in a wide range of applications, from beverages to processed foods. The ability to easily blend into various products without altering their texture or flavor has made powdered anthocyanins a preferred choice for food manufacturers.

The powder form of anthocyanins continues to see consistent growth, driven by its convenience and stability. With a growing demand for natural colorants in food and beverages, especially within the clean-label and organic product segments, powder-based anthocyanins are expected to remain a staple in the industry. In 2025, the market share for powdered anthocyanins is expected to grow slightly, maintaining a dominant position but likely experiencing some pressure from other forms such as liquid concentrates and gel.

By Source

In 2024, Grapes held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 38.4% share of the anthocyanin food colors market. Grapes are a significant source of anthocyanins due to their high concentration of these natural pigments, which are used to provide vibrant red, purple, and blue hues in various food and beverage products. The increasing preference for natural and plant-based ingredients has led to a growing demand for anthocyanin extracts from grapes, particularly in the clean-label and organic food segments.

As the demand for natural food colorants continues to rise, grape-based anthocyanins are expected to maintain their dominant share in the market in 2025. The stability and versatility of anthocyanins derived from grapes make them a popular choice for a variety of applications, including dairy products, beverages, and confectionery. This trend is supported by the growing awareness of the health benefits associated with grape-derived anthocyanins, including their antioxidant properties.

By Application

In 2024, Beverages held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 43.3% share of the global anthocyanin food colors market. This segment’s significant share can be attributed to the increasing demand for natural food colorants in the beverage industry. As consumers continue to seek healthier and more natural alternatives to synthetic food dyes, anthocyanin, with its vibrant hues and natural antioxidant properties, has gained popularity.

Furthermore, the trend towards plant-based and health-focused beverages, such as smoothies and flavored waters, has driven the use of anthocyanins in these categories. This demand is expected to rise steadily, with the beverage segment projected to maintain its leadership in the market through 2025, driven by shifting consumer preferences toward natural and sustainable ingredients in food and drink products.

By Distribution Channel

In 2024, Food Processors held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 47.1% share of the global anthocyanin food colors market. This segment’s strong performance is primarily driven by the growing demand for natural and clean-label ingredients in food manufacturing. As consumer preferences shift toward more transparent and healthier food products, food processors are increasingly adopting anthocyanins as natural colorants in a wide range of products, from baked goods to snacks and dairy items.

The appeal of anthocyanin lies in its ability to provide vibrant, stable color while offering antioxidant benefits, aligning with the clean-label trend. As the food industry continues to prioritize natural ingredients, this segment is expected to maintain its dominant position through 2025, with food processors leading the way in incorporating anthocyanins into their formulations for both aesthetic and health-driven reasons.

Key Market Segments

By Form

• Powder
• Extract
• Liquid

By Source

• Grapes
• Berries
• Red Cabbage
• Pomegranates
• Black Carrots

By Application

• Beverages
• Confectionery
• Dairy Products
• Meat Products
• Bakery Products
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Direct-to-Consumer
• Online Retailers
• Supermarkets
• Food Processors
• Pharmacies
• Others

Drivers

Growing Consumer Demand for Natural Food Colors

One of the major driving factors behind the increasing popularity of anthocyanin food colors is the rising consumer demand for natural and clean-label ingredients. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are actively seeking out products with fewer artificial additives. This trend has led to a significant shift toward natural food coloring solutions, including anthocyanins, which are naturally derived from fruits and vegetables such as berries, grapes, and red cabbage.

According to a report by the International Food Information Council (IFIC), 56% of consumers express a preference for foods with fewer artificial ingredients, with nearly 40% specifically looking for products labeled as “natural” or “organic” when making purchasing decisions (IFIC, 2020). This growing interest in clean-label products has been especially evident in the food and beverage sector, where manufacturers are increasingly substituting synthetic colors with natural alternatives, like anthocyanins, to meet consumer expectations.

Moreover, government regulations and initiatives are also supporting this shift. The European Union, for example, has placed strict guidelines on the use of synthetic colors, further encouraging the use of natural alternatives. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is also closely monitoring the use of artificial food colorings, pushing the food industry to adopt safer, more natural options for consumers.

These changes in consumer behavior, supported by regulatory efforts, have significantly increased the demand for anthocyanin-based food colors, providing an opportunity for companies to develop and market products that align with these growing consumer preferences for health and sustainability.

Restraints

Stability and Cost Challenges of Anthocyanin Food Colors

One of the significant challenges facing the widespread adoption of anthocyanin-based food colors is their limited stability and higher cost compared to synthetic alternatives. While anthocyanins are valued for being a natural and healthier option, they tend to degrade when exposed to factors like heat, light, and pH changes, which can affect their color intensity and shelf life. This makes them less suitable for certain food products, especially those requiring prolonged shelf stability or exposure to varying temperatures, such as processed snacks and beverages.

The instability of anthocyanins presents a significant barrier for manufacturers. According to a study published by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), anthocyanin pigments can lose their color within a few weeks when exposed to high temperatures or acidic environments, making them less reliable than synthetic dyes that tend to be more durable. This challenge is compounded by the higher production costs associated with extracting anthocyanins from natural sources, which increases the overall cost of products that use them as colorants.

On top of this, the scale of production for natural colorants is still smaller compared to synthetic alternatives, which makes them more expensive and harder to source in large quantities. As a result, many manufacturers are hesitant to switch to anthocyanin-based colors, especially when considering the higher production costs and the need for more research into improving their stability.

Opportunity

Expanding Demand for Clean Label Products

A significant growth opportunity for anthocyanin-based food colors lies in the rising consumer preference for clean label products. As people become more conscious about what they put into their bodies, there’s a growing demand for food and beverages that are made with natural, minimally processed ingredients. This trend is leading to a rapid shift in the food industry, with manufacturers increasingly turning to natural food colors like anthocyanins to replace synthetic alternatives.

The clean label movement is strong, with a 2020 survey by the International Food Information Council (IFIC) revealing that 58% of consumers prefer products that list simple, recognizable ingredients on the label. Among these, natural food colors are highly favored, as they align with consumer desires for transparency and healthier options.

Governments and regulatory bodies are also pushing for cleaner, safer ingredients. In Europe, the European Union has set stringent regulations on the use of artificial colorants, which has increased the need for natural alternatives. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to encourage food manufacturers to prioritize consumer health by using safer, natural additives, including anthocyanins.

As clean label demand continues to rise globally, the market for anthocyanin food colors stands to expand significantly, providing an opportunity for companies to develop new and innovative products that cater to these consumer preferences.

Trends

Shift Toward Plant-Based and Functional Foods

A key trend in the use of anthocyanin food colors is their increasing incorporation into plant-based and functional foods. As plant-based diets continue to gain popularity, especially among younger generations, there’s a growing need for natural and visually appealing food ingredients. Anthocyanins, which are rich in antioxidants, are being used not only for their color but also for their potential health benefits, making them a perfect fit for this trend.

According to the Plant Based Foods Association (PBFA), the plant-based food market in the U.S. alone grew by 27% in 2020, reflecting a broad consumer shift towards plant-based options. This surge in demand for plant-based products is accompanied by an increased focus on the nutritional profile of food, which aligns with the health benefits attributed to anthocyanins. These pigments, found in fruits like berries, are known for their antioxidant properties and are often marketed as having potential heart health and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Furthermore, government bodies are beginning to support the integration of natural colorants like anthocyanins in functional foods. In the U.S., the FDA recognizes the growing demand for clean-label ingredients, and in Europe, regulations are tightening on artificial additives. This regulatory shift is pushing food companies to find natural alternatives like anthocyanins for food coloring, especially in health-focused products such as smoothies, plant-based snacks, and beverages.

Regional Analysis

The North American anthocyanin food colors market is a significant and rapidly growing segment, driven by the increasing consumer preference for natural and clean-label ingredients in food and beverages. In 2023, North America held a dominant share of approximately 44.6% of the global market, valued at approximately USD 5.1 billion.

The region’s growth is primarily fueled by rising health consciousness, which has led to a shift from synthetic to natural food coloring agents. Consumers in the United States and Canada are increasingly seeking products that offer both aesthetic appeal and nutritional benefits, with anthocyanin-based food colors fitting well into these demands due to their antioxidant properties and association with health benefits.

The United States remains the largest contributor to the regional market, accounting for a significant portion of the market share due to its robust food and beverage industry, including segments like dairy, confectionery, and beverages, where natural food colors are in high demand. Additionally, regulatory support from organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has approved anthocyanins for use in food products, further enhances the market potential. In Canada, the demand for anthocyanin-based food colors is also on the rise, driven by similar trends towards natural ingredients in food production.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Anhui Greenlife Biotech Co., Ltd. is a leading Chinese manufacturer specializing in the production of natural food colors, including anthocyanins. The company focuses on the extraction and application of plant-based colorants, leveraging advanced technologies for consistent quality. Greenlife Biotech’s product portfolio caters to various industries, with a strong emphasis on the food and beverage sector, offering eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic dyes.

Anthocyanin Naturals specializes in providing high-quality, plant-derived anthocyanin food colors. Based in India, the company has made a mark with its focus on natural and sustainable colorants. Its products, derived from fruits and vegetables, are used in a wide range of applications, including beverages, bakery products, and confectioneries. The company is committed to offering clean-label solutions to meet growing consumer demand for natural ingredients.

Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) is a global leader in natural ingredients and food colorants, including anthocyanins. With a diversified portfolio, ADM offers plant-based color solutions derived from fruits, vegetables, and other natural sources. The company’s commitment to sustainability and its extensive distribution network across North America, Europe, and Asia positions it as a key player in the anthocyanin food colors market.

Top Key Players

• Anhui Greenlife Biotech Co., Ltd.
• Anthocyanin Naturals
• Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
• Archroma
• BioconColors
• California Natural Color
• DDW The Color House
• FMC Corporation
• GNT Group
• Hansen Holding A/S
• Huzhou Qiaobang Biological Extract Co., Ltd.
• Jiangsu Ingredient Co., Ltd.
• Kalsec Inc.
• Lycored Limited
• Mane Kancor
• Nanjing Nuode Import and Export Co., Ltd.
• Nature’s Flavours
• Naturex
• Prinova
• Roha Dyechem Pvt. Ltd.
• Sensient Technologies Corporation
• Vinayak Ingredients (INDIA) Pvt.

Recent Developments

In 2024, Greenlife Biotech is expected to generate over USD 200 million in revenue from the food colorants segment, with a large portion coming from exports to North America and Europe.

In 2024, Anthocyanin Naturals is projected to achieve revenue of approximately USD 50 million, with a significant portion of sales coming from its key markets in North America and Europe.

Report Scope