The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

GRA Nutra AG has unveiled AuraBC, a natural beta-carotene food colourant derived through non-GMO fermentation technology. The launch addresses the broader industry trend of reformulating products to exclude petroleum-based synthetic dyes, such as FD&C colours, and moving towards clean-label, natural pigments.

This shift is driven by a combination of regulatory changes and evolving consumer preferences. Recent developments, including the revocation of Red No. 3 by the FDA in the US and the restriction of titanium dioxide in Europe, have placed pressure on food and beverage manufacturers to find stable, high-performance natural alternatives.

Fermentation and production methodology

The production of AuraBC relies on proprietary fermentation and formulation technologies. GRA Nutra utilises a vertically integrated facility that manages ingredient production, extraction, purification, and formulation.

The company emphasises the sustainability of its manufacturing process, noting that the facility is designed to minimise its ecological footprint. Operations are powered by renewable energy, including on-site solar installations and certified renewable Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).

Formats and applications

AuraBC provides yellow-to-orange colour profiles suitable for a wide range of beverages and food products, including flavoured waters, sparkling refreshers, energy drinks, juices, and dairy-based formulations.

To ensure stability and performance across different production environments, the ingredient is available in several formats:

• Spray-dried powders

• Beadlets

• Granulations

• Oil suspensions

• Emulsions

The beadlet formulation is specifically designed to provide consistent performance and solubility in diverse processing conditions. The product can be standardised to concentrations ranging from 1% to 30%.