US FDA expands permitted uses of spirulina-based blue colors in all foods
The decision follows a formal petition from GNT Group, the maker of EXBERRY® natural colors, which has driven previous incremental approvals for spirulina based blues and argued that broader authorization is needed to meet manufacturer demand for natural alternatives to synthetic dyes.
USA – The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has broadened the approved applications for spirulina extract (Arthrospira platensis), a natural blue color additive derived from spirulina algae, now permitting its use in all foods generally, excluding infant formula and certain regulated categories, following a petition by GNT Group.
Published in the Federal Register, this final rule amends 21 CFR 73.530, removing prior restrictions and enabling wider adoption of clean-label blues and greens across beverages, bakery, dairy, confectionery, and more, at levels consistent with good manufacturing practice (GMP).
Spirulina extract marked the first natural blue approved for US foods, with incremental expansions, including beverages in 2022, all driven by GNT’s petitions and backed by investments in technical capabilities, quality controls, and non-GMO supply chains for its EXBERRY® plant-based colors.
The update holds particular promise for the bakery, where natural greens for pistachio and matcha flavours were limited to decorations, fillings, and coatings; now, direct use in doughs and batters supports trendier, plant-based innovations.
Safety assessments confirmed that dietary exposure to C-phycocyanin (the key pigment) remains below the acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 1.8 g/p/d, deeming it safe via substitutional use analysis based on prior GRAS notices.
Concurrently, FDA clarified labeling flexibility, allowing “no artificial colors” claims on products free of petroleum-based FD&C synthetic dyes, even if using plant-derived colors like spirulina, previously restricted to no-added-color foods, easing clean-label transitions.
Jane MacDonald, GNT USA’s Director of Technical Development, noted: “With more natural blue options now permitted, the focus is on helping manufacturers understand what’s possible… 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.”
Food manufacturers and ingredient suppliers have welcomed the change, noting that blue has historically been one of the most technically challenging colors to replicate with natural sources and that the update will simplify formulation choices for brands seeking “no artificial colors” claims.
This regulatory greenlight accelerates the shift away from synthetics amid consumer aversion to artificial additives, as US natural colour demand booms. Spirulina’s stability, vibrancy, and non-GMO status position it as a go-to for reformulations in snacks, beverages, and seasonal items.
GNT’s advocacy underscores industry’s push for accessible, sustainable alternatives, potentially reshaping US food coloring standards.
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