Kalsec: Carrot Extract Identified as a Preferred Color Source Among Consumers

22 Jan 2014 --- Responding to the consumer’s need for more transparency in the labeling of their food and beverages, Kalsec offers carotenes from carrot extract as a natural color source. In a recent survey, 8 of 10 consumers expressing a preference, preferred carrot extract on their food or beverage ingredient label versus beta-carotene.

“Based on many current ingredient labeling standards, consumers cannot distinguish if their food and beverages contain a natural or chemically derived beta-carotene color source. Carrot extract allows food and beverage processors to provide what consumers want - a clearly identified, natural color source” says Carol Locey, natural colors product director.

Other natural carotenes can provide challenges due to their variability, stability, and storage and handling requirements. Fruit and vegetable juices, for example, can create inconsistent color expression in food and beverages as seen on grocery store shelves. Kalsec, the world’s leading producer of carrot extract, is fully integrated from field to fork; controlling all aspects of seed development, growing and manufacturing. This removes crop variability ensuring consistent carrot extract quality. Kalsec carrot extracts are also available with Durabrite stabilization technology for improved shelf-life stability in a wide range of applications. Kalsec carrot extracts are an excellent replacement for Yellow 5 & 6, mixed carotenoids and synthetic beta-carotene.

Kalsec is the leading global producer of natural spice and herb flavor extracts, natural colors, natural antioxidants, and advanced hop products for the food and beverage industry. For more than 50 years, Kalsec has consistently delivered high-quality, innovative ingredient solutions that make products look better, taste better and last longer. Operating in over 70 countries, Kalsec is headquartered in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with facilities in the United States, Europe and Asia.