EU approval in sight for Givaudan’s novel microalgae-derived blue color
Key takeaways
- Givaudan’s Everzure Galdieria receives positive EFSA feedback, offering a natural, acid-stable alternative to synthetic blue.
- Clean label demand and regulatory pressure are accelerating the shift toward natural colors.
- The microalgae-derived color enables stable blue shades in acidic products, supporting innovation across F&B applications.
Givaudan’s new natural, acid-stable blue color is a step closer to EU approval after the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) released positive feedback on its risk assessment. Everzure Galdieria, a vibrant natural alternative to the synthetic Brilliant Blue FCF (E133) color, responds to the growing consumer demand for recognizable, clean label ingredients.
Innova Market Insights has found that global consumers are increasingly opting for clean label F&B products, as they prioritize transparency, health, and sustainability. Around 30% say they are reducing processed foods, while 27% are trying to limit ingredients perceived as harmful, such as artificial additives.
Everzure Galdieria is derived from the microalga Galdieria sulphuraria and can be used across a wide range of F&B products, including beverages (acidic drinks like sodas, juices, sports drinks), confectionery (gummies, hard candies), dairy and frozen desserts (yogurts, ice cream), fruit preparations and fillings, and bakery decorations and toppings.
Developed in collaboration with French biotech company Fermentalg, this novel phycocyanin blue is fermented and extracted from microalgae using patented processes. It offers a similar shade to spirulina, with complete traceability, and its acid stability broadens its scope of application beyond where spirulina can typically be used.
Everzure Galdieria is sustainably produced via the controlled fermentation of Galdieria sulphuraria, followed by a gentle water extraction. The proprietary process ensures consistent quality, efficient resource use, and scalable production.
“Once it [Everzure Galdieria] is fully approved by the European Commission, manufacturers will finally be able to achieve vibrant blues, greens, and purples in acidic applications like beverages and confections that were previously unattainable with spirulina,” says Nathalie Pauleau, global product manager for Givaudan Sense Colour.
Blues colors can evoke a sense of novelty and adventure in F&B products.
Natural colors: The regulatory context
Everzure Galdieria will now go to the European Commission for final authorization, while the US FDA approved the food color additive last year.
The regulatory approach to food colors differs between the US and the EU. The US FDA takes a more direct stance, with increasing momentum to restrict or ban synthetic dyes, which pushes brands to reformulate. Target recently announced it would remove synthetic colors from its cereal lineup amid this regulatory push.
In contrast, the EU follows a technology-neutral framework. However, its precautionary system, re-evaluations, and occasional bans indirectly encourage a shift toward natural colors as companies aim to reduce regulatory risk.
“We welcome this long-awaited news that Galdieria has received positive feedback following a thorough and intensive [EFSA] assessment,” says Barry Foley, regulatory director for Givaudan Sense Colour.
”This milestone reflects Givaudan’s ongoing commitment to supporting the regulatory pathways that bring these natural alternatives to market. We conducted rigorous testing of Galdieria blue extract in F&B applications to support this assessment and take us one step closer to approval of Galdieria as a color additive in the EU.”
Color as a strategic differentiator
In today’s digital landscape, social media plays a major role in shaping the visual appeal of F&B products, directly influencing consumer choices. Eye-catching, vibrant colors have become essential for brand growth, as platforms like TikTok and Instagram amplify visually striking products and drive popularity.
Color is now a strategic asset for brands looking to stand out in a crowded market. However, its role goes beyond aesthetics — color also communicates meaning and emotion.
Bright reds, oranges, and yellows are often associated with energy, freshness, and naturalness, while blues and purples are said to evoke a sense of novelty and adventure. Green, meanwhile, reinforces perceptions of natural, plant-based products.
“[Everzure Galdieria’s] close color match to Brilliant Blue will allow customers to create novel and exciting food experiences without compromising on naturalness,” says Pauleau.
Givaudan Taste & Wellbeing recently showcased its color and flavor innovations at Expo West 2026 in Anaheim, US.
