Application of phycocyanin in coloring of ice cream and candy

​At present, the pigments allowed to be added to food in China are mainly red and yellow, while blue pigments are relatively scarce. The blue pigments allowed to be added to food include gardenia blue pigment, phycocyanin and indigo. Gardenia blue pigment is made from the fruit of the Rubiaceae plant gardenia. Phycocyanin pigments are mostly extracted and processed from algae plants such as spirulina, cyanobacteria, and Nostoc.

 

What is Phycocyanin?

It is known that natural pigments are healthy, nutritious, and safe whereas artificial pigments are easily contaminated with toxic chemicals like heavy metals in the synthesis process which can cause so many adverse effects on the human body. As people question artificial pigments, consumers like products to be added with natural pigments or labeled "non-artificial" and "pollution-free". Phycocyanin itself is a bright natural color. As a natural pigment, it can be added to food and beverages. It can not only take advantage of its bright sky blue color but also increase the protein nutritional value of food. Therefore, the research and development of the application of phycocyanin in food is of great significance.

 

With more and more attention to food safety, natural pigments are the new trend. As a natural blue pigment of FDA approval, phycocyanin is particularly in high demand now. Phycocyanin is extracted from spirulina. It is water-soluble, non-toxic, and intensely blue. It can be used without restrictions. Thus, it can be widely applied in the frozen food industry.

 

Phycocyanin and ice cream are a perfect match. Why? What is your first impression when you see pure blue? Cool? Quenching thirst? This is exactly the right feeling consumers want on a hot day. The blue ice cream brought by phycocyanin can also trigger consumers' beautiful associations of blue sky and sea. Of course, you can also mix blue spirulina with red and yellow pigments to make other colors.

 

 

 

The Allure of Phycocyanin in Ice Cream

 

The color blue within ice cream holds an element of mesmerizing magic in its unlikeliness-it's quite a surprise to come across an unexpectedly playful product, and nothing quite captures one's imagination with this sense of freedom like the bright hues of bubblegum and the soft hues of cotton candy. Blue ice cream instantly stands out against the usually stark palette of whites and chocolate browns within which the rest of the world is depicted as being trapped, evoking nostalgic summers and a little bit of childlike glee.

 

Beyond the visual beauty, the mystery associated with blue ice cream also extends to its flavor. Unlike any fruit or spice that has a natural hue of blue, blue ice cream rarely brings with it an obvious taste connection, which makes it a canvas for creativity. The tartness with a sweet taste has made blue raspberry a classic, while butterfly pea flower and blue curaçao offer refined, exotic experiences in terms of flavor. The disconnection between its color and taste makes the experience feel fresh and exciting, a sensory adventure that is slightly surreal.

 

Ultimately, the allure of blue in ice cream lies in its ability to evoke wonder and fun. It challenges our expectations, reminding us that food can be as much about joy and imagination as it is about nourishment. Whether you're a child marveling at a bright scoop or an adult seeking a nostalgic indulgence, blue ice cream has a timeless charm that transcends its unconventional hue.

 

Creative Flavour Combinations for Blue Ice Cream

Blue ice cream's bright color and often neutral or slightly sweet taste make it a fantastic canvas for creative flavor pairings. However, it really becomes fantastic when paired with citrus flavors, especially the tangy lemon or zesty yuzu, to give an exciting yet refreshing twist in ice cream-flavor league. The citrus cut goes really well with the creamy aspect of the ice cream, which brings refreshing balance to the palate and awakens its zest while being visually enchanting.

 

For those who prefer the more decadent version, just combine the blue ice cream with richer, nuttier elements such as toasted almonds, pistachios, or salted caramel drizzle. Earthy, buttery nut tones add depth to the bright and whimsical blue nature of the ice cream, producing a feeling at once fancy and comforting.

 

For the adventurous foodie, blue ice cream pairs well with floral or herbal accents, such as lavender, butterfly pea flower, or basil. These pairings introduce subtle aromatic complexities that elevate the dessert beyond its playful appearance. Whether served with a sprig of fresh herbs or infused syrups, these combinations transform blue ice cream into a sophisticated and memorable treat.

 

 

The Healthy Twist: Natural Colors in Candy

Phycocyanin is revolutionizing the candy world, offering a natural and healthy alternative to traditional artificial colors. This vibrant pigment, extracted from blue spirulina, brings a range of benefits that make it an ideal choice for today's conscious candy makers.

This means that natural phycocyanin delivers the ultimate bold, beautiful blue hue which just cannot be missed within a candy. Adding a pop of color without having to rely on artificial dyes will be a success.

1. Clean Ingredients: Being a natural pigment, phycocyanin not only enhances candies without the chemicals but also supports the growing clean-label movement.

2. Antioxidant Power: Beyond appearances, phycocyanin is a natural antioxidant that provides great health benefits apart from its appearance that makes it even more appealing in the market for consumers desiring more about their candies.

3. Vegan and Allergen-Friendly: Phycocyanin is botanically prepared, thus providing vegan and allergy-sensitized consumer groups with wholesome, safe choices of candies.

4. Stability in Candies: Phycocyanin is stable to various candy configurations, such as gummies and hard candy, along with lollipops and does not spoil the flavoring or texture.

Phycocyanin will thus allow candy manufacturers to create an entertaining and colorful product that, not only is appealing to the eye but also meets with growing demand for healthier, more naturally-oriented alternatives.

 

How Can Phycocyanin Be Mixed with Other Colors?

 

Phycocyanin mixed with yellow pigments like turmeric or lutein will create a palette of highly saturated greens that can be used in smoothies, cakes, or frosting for a natural, earthy effect.

 

Phycocyanin and red pigments from sources such as beetroot or hibiscus mixed together create beautiful purples and magentas for colored baked goods, beverages, or frozen desserts.

 

1. Soft Pastel Tones: Diluting the phycocyanin in creamy bases, such as yogurt or cream, creates soft blues. Pink or peach additions, in small amounts, create pastel lavenders or periwinkle shades ideal for macarons, mousse, or whipped toppings.

 

2. Marbled or Gradient Effects: By layering or swirling the phycocyanin with other colors, one can create marbled or ombré effects. It works wonderfully with ice creams, popsicles, or artistic dessert plating.

 

3. Brightening Neutral Bases: Mixing phycocyanin with neutral bases such as white frosting, glazes, or beverages brightens them up, creating a strong or subtle blue flash based on concentration.

 

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the bright blue color and natural origin of phycocyanin make it a versatile and attractive ingredient for creative color blending in culinary creations. Its ability to create a spectrum of hues-from green and purple to gentle pastels and strong gradients-can only be described as unlimited opportunity for food innovation in terms of presentation. Be it aesthetically beautiful or meeting the demands of being a natural and eco-friendly ingredient, phycocyanin emerges as a tremendous resource for chefs, bakers, and food enthusiasts in pursuit of enhancing the beauty and health factors in their preparations.

Yangge Biotech provides both powder and liquid phycocyanin to meet different production requirements. Our spirulina liquid extract is a concentrated, dust-free solution approved in the US and EU. The powdered form works great for gummies and blends easily with other natural pigments to create vibrant colors like purple, green, and brown.

Appealing colors attract consumers and enhance product value. For a healthy, eye-catching solution, phycocyanin is a choice you can’t miss!  Contact yanggebiotech.com to place an order today.

 

 

 

 

 

References:

 

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Spirulina-HealthProfessional/

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