In 2011, global sales of natural colours amounted to an estimated $600m, up by almost 29% from 2007 and demonstrating annual growth in excess of 7%. The share of the total food colours market taken by natural varieties has increased from just over a third (34%) in 2007 to nearly 39% in 2011.
In contrast, growth within the artificial/synthetic colours market has been more modest, with value sales increasing by less than 4% between 2007 and 2011. The segment is now worth an estimated $570m, which is equivalent to 37% of the overall market (compared to 40% in 2007).
According to the research, the use of natural colours in new launches of food and drinks outweighs the use of artificial/synthetic colours by 2:1 on a global basis. The report also highlights significant differences between regions in their migration to the use of natural colours.
Europe has moved strongly towards the use of more natural colours, and leads the way globally, overall using them in 85% of new product launches between 2009 and 2011.
Overall, the global market for food colours was worth an estimated $1.55bn in 2011. This represents growth of 13% from 2007. However, while developing, average annual growth levels currently lie between 2% and 3%, down from the 4-5% experienced throughout most of the previous decade.
The report predicts that the trend toward greater use of natural colours will continue, especially within premium food and drink segments and in products positioned for children.
Source: Mintel
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