INDUSTRY NEWS


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


The U.S. Food and Drug


Administration (FDA) has expanded the permitted uses of spirulina extract as a colour additive to all foods generally, supporting broader use of natural blues across the U.S. food industry. Spirulina extract was the first


natural blue colour 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® colours 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 colours. 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 colour 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 colour solutions in these applications, including pistachio- and matcha-inspired flavours and seasonal offerings.


Oterra launches 2030 sustainability strategy


Oterra has launched its 2030 Sustainability Strategy, outlining targets across three focus areas: Nature, Climate and People, as demand grows for colours sourced from natural ingredients. CEO Martin Sonntag said the


strategy provides a roadmap to strengthen operations, safeguard supply chains and create long-term value. The plan includes commitments to no deforestation, water stewardship, waste reduction, SBTi-validated greenhouse gas targets, energy efficiency, responsible sourcing, and goals covering gender balance, health and safety, and business integrity.


Head of Global Sustainability


Vera Karmeback said the interconnected strategy focuses on protecting ecosystems, cutting emissions and building resilient partnerships. Oterra aims to decouple


growth from emissions, targeting a 28% reduction in total greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 as a step towards net zero. Since 2022, the company has reduced direct emissions by 20% and transitioned to 100% renewable electricity. Its roadmap includes


“carbon farming” initiatives with suppliers to lower fertilizer use and improve soil carbon storage.


FEBRUARY 2026 • KENNEDY’S CONFECTION • 7 “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 colours 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 colours’ when the products do not contain petroleum-based colours.” Such claims were previously limited to food and drink that did not contain any type of added colouring ingredients. The announcement provides additional guidance for companies using EXBERRY® plant-based colours as they consider on-pack claims alongside formulation changes.


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