With the rise of clean labels, people are paying more and more attention to health, and the demand for natural ingredients is growing. Colorful colors can make food more delicious visually, but most foods with colors use artificial synthetic pigments. Therefore, many manufacturers have begun to choose some natural substances as substitutes. Blue, as a rare natural pigment, can be used in almost all foods, such as ice cream, soft candy, solid beverages, yogurt, milkshakes, beverages, smoothies, pasta, etc., and because of its special color, it gives people a sense of freshness, so phycocyanin is very popular among young people.

 

 

Phycocyanin: A Versatile and Natural Blue Colorant

Phycocyanin is a pigment-protein complex found in spirulina, a type of blue-green algae. Unlike synthetic dyes, phycocyanin is derived from a natural source, making it an attractive alternative for health-conscious consumers. It is not only visually appealing but also boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a functional ingredient as well.

 

Thanks to its versatility, phycocyanin is now being used in a wide range of food and beverage products, including:

• Ice cream
• Gummies
• Yogurt
• Smoothies
• Pasta
• Beverages
• Solid drinks

 

The unique color and health benefits of phycocyanin have made it particularly popular among younger generations, who seek visually striking, Instagram-worthy food experiences.

 

 

Trending Phycocyanin-Based Blue Foods

FamilyMart Doraemon Phycocyanin Ice Cream – A Taste of Nostalgia

One of the most exciting blue food products to hit the market is FamilyMart’s Doraemon-themed phycocyanin ice cream. This nostalgic treat has gained immense popularity, especially among those who grew up watching the beloved Japanese cartoon character Doraemon.

Infused with natural phycocyanin, this dreamy blue ice cream not only looks magical but also offers a refreshing and creamy taste. It’s designed to evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia, transporting consumers back to their childhoods with every bite.

 

 

Zhong Xuegao’s "Lazy Addicted" Ice Cream – A Coastal Escape

Another game-changer in the blue food revolution is Zhong Xuegao’s "Lazy Addicted" Ice Cream. This luxurious treat is a collaboration between Roewe and Zhong Xuegao and is made with a carefully curated blend of:

Imported Indonesian coconut milk

• Organic dairy
• Spirulina juice
• Black wolfberry
• Sea salt

The result? A visually stunning ice cream with a unique deep-sea blue hue that perfectly complements its rich, tropical flavors. The color is designed to evoke a sense of relaxation—much like lounging on a beach with the ocean waves in the background.

 

Manmi Phycocyanin Yogurt – Your New "Blue Friend"

For yogurt lovers, Manmi Phycocyanin Yogurt offers an innovative twist on the classic dairy product. Combining the richness of handmade yogurt with fresh fruit, this yogurt features a bold blue hue thanks to the addition of phycocyanin.

The result is a product that not only looks visually striking but also delivers an exceptional balance of creaminess and tangy fruit flavors. It’s perfect for those looking to add a splash of color to their breakfast or snack routine while enjoying the added health benefits of natural blue spirulina.

 

 

Juice Box Phycocyanin Cold-Pressed Juice – A Refreshing Blue Blend

Juice enthusiasts will love Juice Box Phycocyanin Cold-Pressed Juice, which combines:

• Filtered purified water
• Pineapple
• Apple
• Lemon
• Organic phycocyanin

This cold-pressed juice not only looks mesmerizing but also packs a powerful punch of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The combination of tangy citrus and the subtle sweetness of spirulina makes it an ideal refreshing beverage for any time of the day.

 

 

Blue Diamond Dim Sum Dumplings – A Bold Twist on Tradition

Even traditional dishes are getting a blue makeover! Yumbau’s Blue Diamond Dim Sum Dumplings, a product of a Sino-German joint venture, introduce a visually stunning twist on classic dumplings. By incorporating phycocyanin into the dumpling dough, Yumbau has created dumpling wrappers that feature a striking blue hue without the use of artificial dyes.

These dumplings don’t just look good—they taste just as delicious, offering a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. They are a testament to how traditional cuisine can evolve with modern food innovations while maintaining its authenticity.

 

 

The Future of Blue Foods

With natural food colorants like phycocyanin gaining traction, we can expect to see more innovative blue foods hitting the market in the near future. From bakery products to plant-based alternatives, the possibilities are endless.

Some key trends we may see include:

• Blue-colored plant-based meats: As plant-based foods continue to rise in popularity, blue colors could be used to enhance the visual appeal of alternative proteins.
• Blue cocktails and beverages: With the rise of functional beverages, more blue-hued drinks packed with antioxidants and health benefits could enter the market.
• Blue confectionery and desserts: Cakes, pastries, and even bread may start incorporating phycocyanin for both aesthetic and nutritional benefits.

 

Conclusion: Ready to Try Blue Foods?

The revolution of blue foods is here, and it’s more exciting than ever! With so many creative and visually stunning blue food innovations, are you tempted to give them a try?

If you're interested in learning more or sampling these vibrant blue delights, contact Yangge Biotech for free samples and explore the potential of natural blue pigments in food!