In 2018, the global food colors market was valued at USD 2.55 billion and is projected to reach USD 7.58 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 8.11% over the forecast period. North America led the industry in 2018 with a market share of 26.19%. Within this region, the U.S. market is expected to witness strong growth, potentially surpassing USD 1.54 billion by 2032. The rising demand for visually appealing food products, the growing use of plant-based coloring agents, and steady consumption of processed and packaged foods are key factors driving this expansion.
The increasing application of colorants in soft drink production, along with the rising popularity of these beverages, is further accelerating industry growth. Additionally, the global preference for packaged and processed foods, particularly carbonated beverages, continues to play a major role in boosting market demand.
Information Source: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/food-colors-market-102644
Key Growth Drivers
One of the strongest drivers of the market is the shift toward clean-label and naturally sourced ingredients. Consumers are increasingly opting for pigments derived from plants, fruits, and vegetables over synthetic variants, reflecting heightened health awareness. This is especially evident in product categories such as packaged snacks, confectionery, and beverages, where natural colorants are widely used to enhance visual appeal.
Food manufacturers are prioritizing vibrant, health-oriented coloring solutions to align with evolving consumer expectations, while demand for artificial additives steadily declines. Furthermore, the expansion of the food and beverage industry in emerging economies is creating new opportunities for suppliers of both natural and synthetic colorants.
Competitive Landscape
Symrise AG, a leading company in the flavors and fragrances sector, expanded its presence in Asia-Pacific by launching a Flavor Innovation and Technology Center in Singapore. The €30 million investment aims to drive innovation in food and nutrition while boosting manufacturing capacity in the region.
According to CEO Dr. Heinz-Jürgen Bertram, Asia is becoming a hub for future food trends, and Singapore offers the right combination of technological know-how, business strength, and nutritional expertise. This new facility is expected to accelerate collaboration and product development within the food sector.
The increasing global preference for natural, clean-label, and visually attractive products will continue to shape market growth in the coming years.
Regional Insights
In 2018, the North American food color market stood at USD 667.77 million and is projected to expand steadily in the forecast period. The transition toward natural alternatives, stricter regulations on synthetic additives, and greater consumer awareness of health benefits are major growth drivers. The region’s strong food production base and high consumption of carbonated beverages, which use both natural and synthetic colorants, further strengthen the market outlook.
Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at a faster pace, fueled by rising disposable incomes, a growing workforce, and increasing demand for convenient, ready-to-eat products in markets such as China and India. These factors are creating lucrative opportunities for manufacturers of food colorants across the region.
Key Market Players
- Döhler Group
- Archer Daniels Midland Co.
- Symrise AG
- Ingredion Incorporated
- Sensient Technologies
- Kalsec, Inc.
- DDW, Inc.
Recent Developments
- July 2021: GNT Group introduced EXBERRY Coloring Foods derived from turmeric and spirulina, offering affordable and clean-label green coloring solutions.
- June 2021: Chr. Hansen Natural Colors, rebranded as Oterra, acquired Symrise AG’s natural food coloring division, strengthening its natural color portfolio.
