GNT secures FDA approval to extend spirulina-based blue colours to all food applications
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded the permitted uses of spirulina extract as a colour additive to all foods generally, following a petition filed by GNT, the Netherlands-based manufacturer of EXBERRY® plant-based colour solutions.
The ruling, announced on 6 February 2026, marks a significant regulatory milestone for natural blue colorants in the United States. Spirulina extract was the first natural blue colour additive approved for food use in the country, and its permitted applications have been broadened incrementally through successive regulatory amendments, including approval for use in beverages in 2022.
Bakery applications in focus
The latest expansion is of particular relevance to bakery manufacturers. Demand for natural green tones in baked goods – commonly achieved by combining blue and yellow colorants – has grown steadily, yet direct application of spirulina extract in doughs and batters had remained limited. The updated regulatory framework now supports more confident formulation planning for applications such as pistachio- and matcha-inspired products, as well as seasonal ranges.
“With more natural blue options now permitted, the focus is on helping manufacturers understand what’s possible,” said Jane MacDonald, Director of Technical Development at GNT USA. “GNT brings regulatory experience and technical application expertise to support informed decision-making, as customers evaluate natural blue solutions within their specific formulations and commercial goals.”
Labelling claims updated
As part of the same communication, the FDA addressed voluntary labelling claims relating to the absence of FD&C synthetic dyes. Companies will now be permitted to state that products contain “no artificial colours” where those products are free from petroleum-based colorants – a broader definition than was previously permitted, which had required the complete absence of any added colouring ingredient. The change provides clearer guidance for manufacturers reformulating with plant-based alternatives such as EXBERRY, supporting alignment between formulation decisions and on-pack claims.
GNT has filed each of the petitions underpinning these regulatory expansions and has invested in the supply infrastructure and quality systems needed to support commercial-scale use of spirulina-based colours.
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