Consumers often eat with their eyes first, then their taste buds. This statement is even more true in today’s social media world as bright, colorful food is frequently shared and liked on many social media platforms.
In the U.S., consumers age 18-24 say social media pictures influences their food choices. On Instagram, 52% of users say they learn about new food trends. What drives these choices? Colorful food. Food product developers now test food colors for visual appeal on a smart phone camera and with other camera functions such as filters.
Food color additives are moving to natural sources. This is a challenges as colors from plants are not as stable as artificial color additives. Factors such as heat, acidity, storage conditions, light and others can degrade the color vibrancy.
Source: Food Technology, October 2019
