U.S. FDA expands permitted uses of Spirulina-based blue colors following GNT’s petition

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded the permitted uses of spirulina extract as a color additive to all foods generally, supporting broader use of natural blues across the U.S. food industry.  

Spirulina extract was the first natural blue color additive approved for food use in the United States. Its permitted uses have expanded incrementally through multiple regulatory amendments, including approval for use in beverages in 2022.  

Each of these expansions was supported by petitions filed by GNT, which creates EXBERRY^® colors from non-GMO fruit, vegetables, and plants. There has also been sustained investment in the technical capabilities, quality systems, and supply infrastructure required for reliable commercialization of spirulina-based colors.  

This update is particularly relevant for bakery applications, where demand for natural green tones continues to grow and often depends on access to natural blue color solutions. Historically, spirulina extract has been used in decorations, fillings, and coatings, with more limited use directly in baked doughs and batters. Clearer regulatory pathways now support more confident planning for plant-based color solutions in these applications, including pistachio- and matcha-inspired flavors and seasonal offerings.  

“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.”  

As part of the same communication, the FDA also addressed how manufacturers may use voluntary labeling claims related to the absence of FD&C colors on food labels, a move intended to support the industry’s transition away from synthetic dyes.  

The agency said, “Companies will now have flexibility to claim products contain ‘no artificial colors’ when the products do not contain petroleum-based colors.” Such claims were previously limited to food and drink that did not contain any type of added coloring ingredients.  

The announcement provides additional guidance for companies using EXBERRY^® plant-based colors as they consider on-pack claims alongside formulation changes.