The global natural food colors market is poised to climb from $ 2.01 billion in 2025 to $ 4.03 billion by 2035, growing at a robust 7.8 percent CAGR as consumers, regulators, and major food brands accelerate their shift toward clean-label formulations, according to Future Market Insights, Inc. (FMI),
The report highlights surging demand for botanical and bio-derived pigments, fueled by tightening regulations on synthetic dyes, the expansion of plant-based foods, and rapid innovation in extraction, encapsulation, and fermentation technologies.
“Natural colors have moved from niche additions to essential formulation drivers,” said an FMI lead analyst. “Food and beverage manufacturers worldwide are reformulating to meet clean-label expectations, align with evolving safety standards, and capture the premium value associated with natural pigmentation.”
India and China to Lead Global Growth
FMI projects India (CAGR 8.3 percent) and China (CAGR 8.1percent) to be the fastest-growing markets through 2035. India’s expansion is supported by strong marigold, turmeric, beet, and annatto processing clusters—enhanced by government initiatives under Make in India and AYUSH. China’s momentum is driven by widespread reformulation requirements under the Healthy China 2030 initiative.
The United States will remain the largest market by value, supported by advanced food processing capabilities, rising demand for high-purity pigments, and growth in premium beverages and plant-based meats.
Carotenoids and Beverages to Anchor Revenues
Carotenoid pigments—including beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, and annatto—are expected to account for 35.8 percent of global revenues in 2025, supported by their antioxidant associations and heavy use in dairy, bakery, and snack applications.
The beverages sector is set to remain the largest application area with a 38.8 prcent market share, driven by natural-color adoption across functional drinks, juices, sports beverages, and energy drinks.
“The shift to turmeric, spirulina, and saffron-based pigments in beverages shows how brands are using natural colors as both visual enhancers and functional ingredients,” FMI noted.
PIXABAY PHOTO