GNT Group releases new spirulina-derived blue powder for Exberry line of natural colors

GNT Group (Mierlo, Netherlands) has developed a range of blue powders derived from spirulina that have a high color intensity as part of its line of Exberry Coloring Foods. Available in standard and micronized powder form, the Exberry high intensity blues come with a choice of carriers, including maltodextrin, or sugar, and are guaranteed to be trehalose-free.

“The challenge of achieving vibrant blue colors in food using only ingredients from a natural origin is well understood. However, naturalness is what consumers are demanding so there is pressure on manufacturers to deliver that,” said Sonja Scheffler, product manager for GNT, in a press release. “Our new high intensity blue powders from spirulina will make it significantly easier to do so at lower doses without compromising on important product performance factors such as solubility and stability.”

The ingredient is particularly well-suited for instant-beverages, hard-panned products, fondant, white chocolate, and pressed tablets, says GNT. Because Exberry high intensity blues, like the other ingredients in the Exberry line, are derived from a natural plant source using gentle, physical processes such as pressing, chopping, filtering, and concentrating, the European Union does not classify the ingredients as food additives, but rather, foods with coloring properties. This allows cleaner label declarations.