FDBusiness.com

Merck has launched a new pearlescent effect pigment – Candurin NXT Ruby Red, which is said to be the first silica-based effect pigment approved for food use. Its intense red, strong mass tone and superb stability make it a mineral-based and non-artificial dye alternative, the company claims. With this brilliant newcomer and the specifically developed technology behind it, Merck says it is underscoring its position as an innovator of food-quality effect pigments designed to enhance the attractiveness of many foods and food supplements.

Candurin NXT Ruby Red is an insoluble combination of silica and iron oxide. With a medium particle size of 5 to 50 micrometers, it is said to display excellent light, temperature and pH stability.

“Red is the number one colour in the food industry. Thanks to its properties, Candurin NXT Ruby Red meets the growing needs of users for a superb and stable colour that also makes products very recognisable,” said Miriam Becker, Director Global Marketing Cosmetics/Decorative Materials at Merck.

Candurin NXT Ruby Red is said to impart a distinctive finish to diverse products such as chocolate or baked goods, chewing gum or candies, fruit gums or other sweets, and also to give ice cream and beverages an unmistakable, irresistible glitter. Combined with excerpts or aromas of red fruits, it visually boosts the taste sensation, Merck believes. Candurin NXT Ruby Red can also be used to highlight special properties of food supplement tablets and capsules so as to underscore the value of the products, the company notes.

Merck’s new pigment innovation also supports“vegan” and “without any artificial colours” claims – unlike the food dye alternatives such as non-vegan Carmine (E 120) and synthetic Allura Red (E 129), the company points out. It also has both Kosher and Halal certification.