Global Natural Colorant Market Size, Share Analysis Report By Type (Pigment, Dyes), By Source (Plant, Animal, Mineral, Microbial), By Product Type (Carotenoids, Chlorophyll, Anthocyanin, Betalains, Others), By Form (Powder, Liquid, Paste), By Application (Food and Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, Textiles, Others) , By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Natural Colorant Market size is expected to be worth around USD 3.7 Billion by 2034, from USD 1.7 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 8.1% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

​Natural colorants, derived from botanical, zoological, or mineral sources, are increasingly integral to the food and beverage industry. Their appeal lies in their ability to enhance product aesthetics while aligning with consumer preferences for clean-label and health-conscious options. Common natural colorants include turmeric (curcumin), beetroot (betalains), spirulina (phycocyanin), and paprika (capsanthin). These pigments not only provide vibrant hues but also offer additional health benefits, such as antioxidant properties.​

The push towards natural colorants is largely influenced by consumer preferences shifting towards natural and organic products. According to a report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, sales of organic foods, often featuring natural colorants, have increased by over 20% annually since 2021. Additionally, technological advancements in extraction and stabilization methods have made natural colorants more accessible and effective for industrial use.

Environmental concerns also play a critical role. The European Union’s regulation EC No 1333/2008 has been pivotal in guiding manufacturers towards natural colorants by restricting the use of certain synthetic dyes in food products. This regulatory environment, coupled with the incentives for sustainable manufacturing practices, has encouraged significant investments in natural colorant production.

Government Initiatives like the USDA’s National Organic Program that supports organic food production are indirectly promoting the use of natural additives, including colorants. For instance, the USDA reports show an increase in organic food sales by 12% from 2023 to 2025, paralleling the demand for organic-certified color solutions.

Key Takeaways

• Natural Colorant Market size is expected to be worth around USD 3.7 Billion by 2034, from USD 1.7 Billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 8.1%.
• Pigment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 68.8% share of the natural colorant market.
• Plant held a dominant market position in the natural colorant sector, capturing more than a 58.1% share.
• Carotenoids secured a dominant market position in the natural colorant sector, capturing more than a 34.9% share.
• Powder maintained a dominant market position in the natural colorant industry, capturing more than a 52.4% share.
• Food & Beverages sector held a dominant market position in the natural colorant market, capturing more than a 50.7% share.
• North America established itself as a leader in the natural colorant market, capturing a significant 43.4% market share, valued at approximately USD 0.7 billion.

By Type

Pigment Dominates with 68.8% Share Owing to Robust Demand in Natural Color Applications

In 2024, Pigment held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 68.8% share of the natural colorant market. This significant market share is primarily attributed to the extensive use of pigments derived from natural sources in various industries, including food and beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Natural pigments, such as carotenoids, chlorophyll, and anthocyanins, are favored for their dual benefits of coloration and potential health advantages.

These pigments are extracted from a variety of sources like fruits, vegetables, and other plant materials, aligning with the growing consumer preference for natural and organic products. The demand for these pigments is further supported by their proven safety, sustainability, and their role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the end products. As the market continues to expand, the dominance of natural pigments is expected to persist, supported by consumer trends towards healthier and more sustainable products.

By Source

Plant Sources Lead with 58.1% Due to Growing Preference for Natural Ingredients

In 2024, Plant held a dominant market position in the natural colorant sector, capturing more than a 58.1% share. This leadership is largely due to the increasing consumer demand for natural and organic products, which has encouraged manufacturers to source colorants directly from plants. Plant-based natural colorants, derived from sources such as vegetables, fruits, seeds, and algae, offer a broad spectrum of colors and are perceived as safer and healthier alternatives to synthetic colorants.

Their adoption is particularly strong in industries like food and beverages, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals, where the push for clean-label ingredients is prominent. The trend towards plant-based diets and eco-friendly products further bolsters the demand for plant-derived natural colorants, as they align with the ethical and health-conscious values of today’s consumers. As we move forward, the reliance on plant sources for natural colorants is expected to maintain its upward trajectory, driven by ongoing consumer shifts towards sustainability and natural ingredients.

By Product Type

Carotenoids Command 34.9% Market Share Due to Health Benefits and Vibrant Colors

In 2024, Carotenoids secured a dominant market position in the natural colorant sector, capturing more than a 34.9% share. This substantial market share is driven by the widespread recognition of carotenoids’ health benefits and their vibrant colors. Carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, lutein, and astaxanthin, are highly valued in both the food and health supplement markets for their antioxidant properties and role in enhancing immune function.

Extracted from sources like carrots, spinach, and other colorful fruits and vegetables, carotenoids are also used extensively in products aiming to appeal to health-conscious consumers. Their ability to provide naturally vibrant colors makes them especially popular in the natural food coloring market, where there is a strong push for clean and transparent ingredient lists. As awareness and preference for wellness-oriented products continue to grow, the demand for carotenoids is expected to remain robust, reinforcing their strong position in the market.

By Form

Powder Form Leads with 52.4% Share for Its Versatility and Ease of Use

In 2024, Powder maintained a dominant market position in the natural colorant industry, capturing more than a 52.4% share. This leading status is primarily attributed to the powder form’s extensive applicability across various industries, including food and beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Powdered natural colorants are favored for their ease of storage, long shelf life, and convenience in handling and transportation.

Moreover, they allow for precise measurement and consistent blending in product formulations, making them a preferred choice for manufacturers seeking uniformity and stability in their products. The versatility of powdered colorants, capable of being integrated into dry mixes, seasoning blends, and cosmetic powders, further drives their widespread adoption. As the natural colorant market continues to expand, the demand for powder form is expected to remain strong, supported by its fundamental benefits in product formulation and manufacturing.

By Application

Food & Beverages Lead with 50.7% Share, Driven by Consumer Demand for Natural Ingredients

In 2024, the Food & Beverages sector held a dominant market position in the natural colorant market, capturing more than a 50.7% share. This dominance is largely influenced by increasing consumer preference for natural and organic food products, which has prompted manufacturers to replace synthetic colorants with natural alternatives. Natural colorants, such as those derived from turmeric, beetroot, and spirulina, are especially popular in this sector for their ability to provide appealing colors without compromising on health benefits.

Their application spans a wide range of food and beverage products, including beverages, dairy, baked goods, and confectionery items, where the appeal of clean labeling is particularly strong. As consumers continue to advocate for more transparency and fewer artificial ingredients in their food, the demand within the food and beverage industry for natural colorants is expected to maintain a robust growth trajectory, reinforcing this segment’s substantial market share.

Key Market Segments

By Type

• Pigment
• Dyes

By Source

• Plant
• Animal
• Mineral
• Microbial

By Product Type

• Carotenoids
• Chlorophyll
• Anthocyanin
• Betalains
• Others

By Form

• Powder
• Liquid
• Paste

By Application

• Food & Beverages
• Pharmaceuticals
• Cosmetics
• Textiles
• Others

Drivers

Increasing Consumer Demand for Clean Label Products Propels Natural Colorant Market

One of the primary driving factors for the growth of the natural colorant market is the increasing consumer demand for clean label products. This trend is particularly noticeable in the food and beverage industry, where a growing number of consumers are prioritizing health and wellness, leading to a significant shift away from artificial additives and towards natural ingredients.

The clean label movement has been gaining momentum, with consumers seeking transparency in the ingredients used in their food and beverage products. This shift is supported by various government regulations that encourage the use of natural over synthetic colorants. For example, the European Union has implemented stringent labeling requirements that mandate clear disclosure of artificial colorants on product labels, which has indirectly boosted the demand for natural alternatives.

Statistics from food industry organizations show that over 60% of consumers in Europe and North America prefer products with natural colorants, and this preference is influencing purchasing decisions. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) supports this trend through its organic certification program, which promotes the use of natural colorants in all USDA-certified organic foods.

This consumer-driven demand is compelling food manufacturers to reformulate their products to include natural colorants, thereby driving market growth. For instance, several leading global food companies have committed to removing artificial colorants from their products and replacing them with natural alternatives. This response not only aligns with consumer preferences but also enhances brand loyalty and market share.

Restraints

Stability and Consistency Challenges Limit Natural Colorant Adoption

One of the significant restraining factors in the natural colorant market is the challenge of stability and consistency in color quality. Unlike synthetic colorants, natural colorants can vary widely in their color intensity and stability depending on the source and the processing method. This variability can affect the final appearance of food and beverage products, which is a critical aspect for consumer acceptance and brand consistency.

Natural colorants are sensitive to changes in pH, light, and temperature, making them less reliable than their synthetic counterparts in some food processing applications. For instance, anthocyanins derived from berries may provide vibrant colors at a certain pH but can quickly degrade and change color when exposed to heat during processing. This inconsistency can lead to increased costs and complexities in production as manufacturers may need to adjust formulations or processing methods to maintain product quality.

Food industry reports have highlighted that about 30% of food manufacturers cite the variability of natural colorants as a key hurdle in their wider adoption. These challenges are also echoed in industry feedback to government bodies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, where stakeholders have requested more guidance on the use of natural colorants.

To address these challenges, there are ongoing research and development efforts aimed at improving the stability of natural colorants. Advances in encapsulation technologies, for example, are helping to protect natural colorants from environmental factors, thereby enhancing their stability in various applications.

Opportunity

Expansion into Non-Food Sectors Presents Major Growth Opportunity for Natural Colorants

The expanding application of natural colorants beyond the food and beverage industry represents a significant growth opportunity. As consumers increasingly seek natural and sustainable products, the demand for natural colorants in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles is rising. This shift is not only driven by consumer preference but also supported by regulatory bodies that are imposing stricter guidelines on synthetic additives.

In the cosmetics sector, for instance, there is a growing trend towards ‘clean beauty’, which emphasizes products free from synthetic dyes and chemicals. Natural colorants, derived from flowers, fruits, and other plant-based sources, are being used to color cosmetics such as lipsticks, eyeshadows, and blushes. This trend is supported by regulations such as the European Union’s regulation on cosmetic products, which encourages the use of natural ingredients to reduce the environmental impact and potential health risks associated with synthetic dyes.

Similarly, in the pharmaceutical industry, natural colorants are gaining traction due to their perceived safety and low toxicity compared to synthetic colors. They are increasingly being used in coated tablets and syrups to improve patient compliance, especially among children and the elderly.

The textile industry also presents a promising avenue for natural colorants, as sustainable fashion becomes more mainstream. The push towards environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and the reduction of harmful waste is driving textile manufacturers to explore natural dyes. Initiatives like the Sustainable Apparel Coalition are promoting the use of natural and sustainable materials in clothing manufacturing.

Trends

Rise of Superfoods as Sources of Natural Colorants

A major trend in the natural colorant market is the use of superfoods as sources for extracting vibrant and health-beneficial colorants. Superfoods like spirulina, turmeric, and beetroot are not only valued for their health benefits but are also being utilized for their strong natural pigments that offer a broad spectrum of colors. This trend is driven by the clean label movement, where consumers demand products with recognizable and health-enhancing ingredients.

Spirulina, for example, is a blue-green algae that is making waves in the natural colorant industry, particularly for its bright blue pigment, phycocyanin. The demand for blue and green natural colorants is surging as they are rare in the palette of natural colors available, making spirulina highly valued. The global market for spirulina as a colorant has been growing significantly, with projections indicating a robust growth trajectory, especially in health-oriented food products, beverages, and nutraceuticals.

Turmeric is another superfood that is extensively used for its curcumin pigment, providing a bright yellow hue. Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric is being incorporated into a variety of products, enhancing both the health benefits and the visual appeal of goods.

Beetroot, with its deep red color, is used in fruit drinks, desserts, and confections, and is appreciated not only for its color but also for its nutritional value, including high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

These superfood-based colorants are not only popular in the food and beverage sector but are also expanding into cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications, where natural ingredients are increasingly preferred. This trend is supported by various government health initiatives promoting natural and safe ingredients in consumer products.

Regional Analysis

North America Leads the Natural Colorant Market with a Dominant Share

In 2024, North America established itself as a leader in the natural colorant market, capturing a significant 43.4% market share, valued at approximately USD 0.7 billion. This substantial dominance is driven by several factors, including stringent regulatory frameworks, consumer demand for clean-label products, and heightened awareness regarding health and wellness.

The region’s market strength is underpinned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Health Canada’s proactive stances on reducing synthetic additives in food and personal care products. These regulatory bodies have been instrumental in enforcing labeling requirements that promote transparency and encourage the use of natural over synthetic colorants. Such regulations have significantly influenced manufacturers to shift towards natural ingredients, thereby propelling the growth of the natural colorant market.

Consumer preferences in North America are heavily tilted towards sustainable and ethically produced goods. The trend towards organic food consumption, coupled with a rise in vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, has further bolstered the demand for natural colorants. Supermarkets and direct-to-consumer online sales platforms are expanding their stocks of products featuring natural colorants, reflecting this growing consumer preference.

Moreover, North America is home to a robust technological landscape, which supports innovative extraction and stabilization techniques that enhance the quality and applicability of natural colorants. Advanced technologies in encapsulation and fermentation are being leveraged to improve the stability and intensity of natural colorants, making them more attractive for use in a variety of applications, from food and beverages to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

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

Allied Biotech Corporation is renowned for its innovation in the development and manufacturing of carotenoids, which are widely used as natural colorants in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The company focuses on sustainable practices and advanced extraction technologies to produce high-quality, stable color solutions that meet global regulatory standards. Their commitment to research and development continues to position them as a leader in the natural colorant market.

Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) leverages its extensive agricultural network to produce a diverse range of natural colorants, including annatto, turmeric, and paprika. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and traceability, ADM provides color solutions that cater to the growing demand for clean and transparent labeling in food and beverages. Their global presence and innovative approach enable them to meet the evolving needs of consumers worldwide.

BASF SE offers a broad portfolio of natural colorants, focusing on pigments derived from sources that ensure safety and sustainability. Their products are key in applications ranging from food coloring to cosmetic additives, underlining BASF’s commitment to high-quality, eco-friendly solutions. The company’s ongoing investment in technology and new product development reinforces its position as a pivotal player in the natural colorant sector.

Top Key Players

• Allied Biotech Corporation
• Archer Daniels Midland Company
• BASF SE
• BioconColors
• Cargill, Incorporated
• Chr. Hansen Holding A/S
• Dohler Group
• FMC Corporation
• GNT Group B.V.
• Kalsec Inc.
• Kerry Group plc
• DSM N.V.
• Lycored Ltd.
• Sensient Technologies Corporation
• Symrise AG

Recent Developments

In 2024, ADM continues to expand its footprint in the market by leveraging its extensive agricultural network to provide an array of natural colorants, such as annatto, turmeric, and carmine, catering to a diverse range of industries including food, beverages, and cosmetics.

In 2024, BASF continues to strengthen its market position through its commitment to innovation and sustainability within its natural colorant range. The company’s portfolio includes a variety of natural color solutions tailored for the food, beverage, and cosmetics industries.

Report Scope