The Need

Natural colorants are increasingly prioritized in the food, beverage, and cosmetic industries to support clean-label and plant-based product development. Hydroxyphenyl-Pyranoanthocyanins (HP-PACNs) are prized for their color stability and resilience against pH. However, depending on the kind of carrier they are mixed into (e.g. alcohol base, high sugar, high protein) there can be changes (color shift, precipitation of the HP-PACN, ect.) making it difficult to predict the end results when applying HP-PACN colorants in different products.

The Technology

Ohio State University researchers have eliminated the guess work of working with HP-PACNs as a natural colorant. Through methodical testing they have created a matrix that allows you to quickly and easily understand the color and solubility changes that will occur for different HP-PACNs when mixed with different carriers. By knowing how your HP-PACN will interact with a given carrier, the biggest hurdle to utilizing this class of highly stable and vibrant natural colorants is overcome. Products can now be easily customized and adapted into desired colors, offering the potential for clean-label product development and a natural alternative to conventional colorants.

Commercial Applications

• Food
• Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
• Cosmetics
• Consumer Products

Benefits/Advantages

• Superior Stability and Customizable Solubility for HP-Pyranoanthocyanins
• Customizable Color Expression for HP-Pyranoanthocyanins
• Plant-derived, Eco-friendly, and Sustainable