Alexander Tsado and Robin Miller
December 3, 2025
These vibrant new food dyes are 100% natural
They’re made by fermenting special strains of yeast to produce plant pigments called ‘betalains’. Betalains are natural purple and yellow hues found in plants such as beets and cactus fruit. When combined, they can create colours on a spectrum from purple to yellow. Synthetic petrochemical food dyes already exist. But 60-70% of these artificial dyes contain known carcinogens. While some have been shown to negatively impact children’s behaviour.
New, vibrant food dyes are being manufactured by fermenting yeast to produce betalains, natural pigments from beets, and cactus fruit, offering a colorful spectrum from purple to yellow.
Synthetic v/s natural food dyes
Although synthetic petrochemical food dyes already exist, 60-70% of these artificial dyes contain known carcinogens, and some have been shown to negatively impact children's behavior.
Besides, the new dyes are a natural, safe, and sustainable alternative. They biodegrade rather than linger in the environment, require less land and water than current natural dyes, and have a much smaller carbon footprint.
Collaboration & future availability
These natural dyes are the result of a collaboration between Phytolon and Ginkgo Bioworks. The two companies are now working to bring the full-color palette to market.
Watch the video to learn more.
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