Technology to create food colors from nature

Vietnamese scientists are gradually introducing technologies to create food colors from natural and safe for health.

Red from dragon fruit peel

Associate Prof. Dr. Nguyen Kim Vu and his colleagues at the Institute of Agricultural Electrical Engineering and Post-harvest Technology (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development) sought to extract natural red color from dragon fruit peels. Scientists used spray drying method to receive appropriate color products. The product comes in two forms: a dry, pink colored powder with a crimson color.

Through experimentation, the scientists found that the most suitable solvent to extract the red substance from dragon fruit peel is ethanol 40 degrees, in conditions of temperature lower than 40 degrees C. However, it should be noted, color Redness of the dye solution from the dragon fruit peel is most markedly changed in alkaline environment. Pigment products have strong hygroscopic properties so care should be taken to avoid moisture.

Dragon fruit peel is a rich source of material to create a natural red color.Photo: Q. Anh

Blue from bamboo, bamboo, giang, vầu

This is a product of scientists of the Institute of Chemistry, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology. With leaf material such as bamboo, apricot, bamboo, vermicelli, . scientists bring preliminary processing and extract green matter (chlorophyll), remove yellow pigment then purify.

This mixture is dried to form a green product used in food. The green color of this composition is very fresh, durable, non-toxic, and can be dissolved in alcohol, alcohol, etc. This is a state-level research topic applied in confectionery and canning industry. , vegetables and concentrated food. Currently, green products from leaves are being tested and tested at the Vietnam Institute of Science and Technology to proceed to mass production. Scientists are also willing to offer this technology, including staff training, know-how transfer, technical advice and other requirements.