First silica-based effect pigment approved for food
Candurin NXT Ruby Red has an intensive red colour, strong mass tone and superb stability, making it a suitable mineral-based and non-artificial alternative to dye, according to its German maker Merck.
With a particle size ranging from five to 50 micrometres, the pigment is said to offer a distinctive finish to products as diverse as chocolate, baked goods, chewing gum, candies and fruit gums.
‘Irresistible glitter’
It also gives ice cream and beverages an “unmistakable, irresistible glitter”, Merck said.
Unlike food dye alternatives such as carmine (E120), the pigment is vegan-friendly. Similarly, it can be added to products that lay claim to being made without any artificial colours, unlike the synthetic allura red (E129).
Miriam Becker, director of global marketing for cosmetics and decorative materials at Merck, said the product displays excellent light, temperature and pH stability.
‘Number one colour’
“Red is the number one colour in the food industry. Thanks to its properties, Candurin NXT Ruby Red meets the growing needs of users for a superb and stable colour that also makes products very recognisable,” she explained.
“A highly recognisable product such as Candurin NXT Ruby Red is also set to succeed internationally, since it is widely approved, meets international food industry standards and has both Kosher and Halal certification.”
Claimed to be the world’s oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company, Merck generated sales of €12.85bn across 66 countries in 2015.
