California Natural Color highlights natural color alternatives to Red No. 3

In response to the impending prohibition on Red No. 3, California Natural Color is highlighting how its color solutions from plant-based and natural sources help manufacturers in the food, beverage, and nutraceutical sectors navigate the coming changes in the industry.

“At California Natural Color, we understand the urgency and complexities involved when transitioning away from Red No. 3, and our team of experts is here to support reformulation efforts that meet both regulatory requirements and deliver finished goods that meet consumer expectations,” explained Dana Osborn, marketing manager, California Natural Color, in a November 11 press release.¹

Earlier this year, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the revocation of authorization for the use of Red No. 3, also called FD&C Red No. 3, due to two studies indicating that high exposures to the dye caused cancer in rats.² A 2022 color additive petition had cited the studies, and though FDA noted that cancer was defined as specific to rats and not humans, the Delaney Clause of the Food Drug & Cosmetic Act prohibits the authorization of additives that cause cancer in humans or animals.

Manufacturers in the food industry have until January 15, 2027, to comply with the removal of synthetic dye from their products, while drug manufacturers have until January 18, 2028.

Natural sources for color

The press release notes that the replacing the color additive involves several considerations such as stability, flavor, and scalability, and that California Natural Color offers liquid formats and a proprietary crystal format. “Our liquid and crystal colors are made from fruits, vegetables and other plant-based sources and are specifically designed to tackle the challenges of replacing synthetic dyes like Red Dye No. 3,” explains Osborn. “This offers manufacturers a pathway to clean label formulations without compromising on visual appeal or product quality.”

The crystal color replacement is also noted for having zero calories in use, high color concentration, fast solubility, and having a shelf-life of two to five years.

Applications and technologies

The colors can also be stable in multiple applications, including gummies. “We offer several color solutions derived from purple sweet potato, carrot, radish, and grape, and can custom color match to help confectioners deliver beautiful pink shades,” explained Jay Howard, color technology manager, California Natural Color.

The industry shift toward clean label alternatives to color additives was also highlighted. “Imagine a strawberry-flavored smoothie, previously colored with Red Dye No. 3, now boasting an equally appealing and stable pink hue from a natural source such as California Natural Color’s Pure Red Carrot,” added Howard. “These are the transformations our team is supporting as we work closely with manufacturers, empowering them to not only meet regulatory demands but also find reformulation strategies that ensure consumer expectations are met in the long-term when using natural colors for clean label products. This may mean our team recommends a process change, such as adding the color after the heat process.”

Showcased at SupplySide Global 2025

The company showcased several of its natural color solutions at SupplySide Global 2025, highlighting their proprietary color technology and plant-based pigments.³ California Natural Ingredients also produces grape juice concentrates and grape seed extract, which was displayed at the event, along with ActiVin and MegaNaturial–BP, which are sustainably sourced in California. Additionally, MegaNatural–BP has been Non-GMO Project Verified and clinically proven to help aid in the support of healthy blood pressure.

References

1. California Natural Color. Navigating Color Bans: Replacing Red Dye No. 3 Made Easier with California Natural Color. November 11, 2025. (accessed 2025-26-25).
2. Krawiec, S. FDA revokes authorization to use Red No. 3 as a color additive in food or drugs. January 15, 2025. https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/fda-revokes-authorization-to-use-red-no-3-as-a-color-additive-in-food-or-drugs (accessed 2025-26-25).
3. Colli, M. California Natural Color to showcase natural color solutions at SupplySide Global 2025. October 30, 2025. https://www.nutritionaloutlook.com/view/california-natural-color-to-showcase-natural-color-solutions-at-supplyside-global-2025 (accessed 2025-26-25).