Titanium Dioxide Alternatives in Powder Beverage Mixes
Finding the right solution
As many governments continue to restrict the usage of titanium dioxide in food and beverage products, beverage companies are under pressure to replace the ingredient with other solutions. Global new product launch data confirms that brands are recognizing the importance of using simpler and cleaner ingredients in general, including natural colours.
TiO2 & Non-Artificial Colour Usage in Powdered
Beverage Launches by Region:
The powdered beverage category, a staple in many developing markets, has recently shown an increased interest in converting to natural colours.
The category is characterized by its intense and vibrant colour shades that consumers have come to expect. For product developers, achieving the desired shade is clearly the main objective in any natural colour conversion project.
However, standard natural colour powders often do not disperse well into powdered beverages because they do not possess plating properties. Plating characteristics are critical to achieve visible colour shade in the beverage powder. They also provide quick solubility after the beverage has been hydrated. The granular powder particles of beta carotene, for example, would end up looking like a salt and pepper mix and take a long time to dissolve. A plating-grade natural colour that simulates a synthetic lake is an ideal solution for dry beverage mixes, such as Sensient’s Microfine™.
It is certainly possible to achieve vibrant, attractive colour shades that have strong consumer appeal when using Sensient’s Microfine™ range of colouring foods and natural colours. For further illustration, be invited to watch this
6-minute demonstration.
Global Regulatory Compliance
Turning to titanium dioxide, today, there are more than 100 governmental regulatory bodies, dozens of international trade agreements, and many industrial trade organizations that oversee food regulations. Different risk philosophies are in play depending on the region, and global food manufacturers will need to navigate the diverse regulations on compliance that can vary by location. The fact is, more and more regions globally restrict the usage of titanium dioxide, and many manufacturers prefer to replace the ingredient where possible.
With Sensient’s ever-evolving Avalanche range, we are proud to introduce a new Avalanche Ultra for instant beverage mixes.
It provides several advantages for brands looking to innovate without titanium dioxide and without visual/textural compromise, including the following:
- Creates opacity in prepared dry mixes
- Maintains opacity in mid-to-high water activity applications
- High-performing for an optimal drinking experience of the final drink
- Ease of use
- Label-friendly
- Adding a touch of freshness to any beverage mix concept
Sensient’s new Avalanche Ultra demonstrates our commitment to providing advanced solutions to food and beverage manufacturers, so brands can satisfy consumers without compromising on their products’ appearances.
In a category where colour is certainly prominent, there is great opportunity to cater to consumer requests for cleaner ingredients through replacing titanium dioxide or through natural colour innovation. With today’s ingredient-conscious consumers increasingly seeking naturally positioned options, there is a tremendous growth opportunity available.
Our team of experts love to talk colour formulation, so if you have a project or just want to talk through some strategies and options, please reach out by setting up a consultation with us today.
