Organics offer market for burnt sugar colour
The US-based company, which has manufacturing operations in the UK and Ireland, claims a leading position in caramel colours.
It has previously offered burnt sugar in the EU but the new offering, which comes in liquid form, and is said to be suitable for a broad range of organic foodstuffs, including flavourings, baked foods, sauces, cereals and coffee drinks.
Global VP for sales Graham Merryweather explained the move was driven by requests from customers of regular burnt sugar and caramel colours in Europe, who were seeking a version to use in products containing between 70 and 100 per cent certified organic ingredients.
“Europe has the world’s largest market for organic foods, and the retail growth rate for organic foods has outpaced that for food overall,” he said.
The global organic market was estimated to be worth US$40 bn (€31bn) in 2006 by British=based consultancy Organic Monitor. Countries where consumers have high disposable incomes are said to be driving the demand, with Switzerland, the US and Singapore leading the way.
As for the new organic burnt sugar, it is certified by certifier Quality Assurance International and is said to be acceptable to The Soil Association, whose organic symbol is well-recognised on foodstuffs.
Other innovations in the world of colour this year include a natural red sweet potato colour; and a new naturally-derived blue colour developed by its strategic partner, Colormaker.
