# Non-GMO-Derived Natural Food Colorants GRA Nutra Calls Attention to the AuraBC™ Innovatio By Kalin Ned | Published 2026-06-23 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/food-colorant References: [app.dealroom.co](https://app.dealroom.co/news/feed/gra-nutra-launches-natural-beta-carotene-food-colour-via-fermentation-technology-at-ift-first)  GRA Nutra has introduced AuraBC™ — a [natural beta-carotene food colorant](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oterra-and-seprify) derived from non-GMO fermentation technology. This innovation makes its debut at the IFT FIRST event. With it, GRA Nutra sought the attention of food and beverage manufacturers seeking sustainable and [clean-label alternatives to synthetic dyes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sensient-marine-blue-capri). AuraBC™ is produced through a vertically integrated process that encompasses fermentation, extraction, purification, and formulation within a single facility. This model is designed to minimize transport and energy consumption while enhancing overall efficiency. The food colorant is available in multiple formats, including spray-dried powders, beadlets, and oil suspensions, with the beadlet technology offering particular advantages in protecting the sensitive carotenoids from light and oxidation, thereby ensuring stability and consistent performance across various applications. GRA Nutra's commitment to sustainability is further underscored by its reliance on renewable energy sources and the use of renewable, [fermentation-based raw materials](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vivitein-blg). Image Credit: GRA Nutra ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 7.1/10 - Popularity: 67% | Activity: 67% | Freshness: 78% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Fermentation-derived Colorants:** Non-GMO fermentation platforms are expanding the supply of natural pigments with scalable consistency, creating room for bio-based alternatives to petroleum-derived and synthetic food dyes. - **Clean-label Ingredient Systems:** Consumer demand for recognizable and sustainable ingredients is reshaping formulation strategies, with stable natural colorants becoming a differentiator in packaged food and beverage innovation. - **Vertically Integrated Biomanufacturing:** Centralized fermentation, extraction, purification, and formulation models reduce logistical complexity while enabling greater control over ingredient quality, traceability, and environmental impact. ### Where This Applies - **Food Ingredients:** Bio-produced carotenoids are redefining colorant portfolios by combining natural positioning with performance formats suited to powders, beadlets, and oil-based applications. - **Packaged Food:** Snack, bakery, confectionery, and prepared food brands are gaining access to more stable natural color systems that support cleaner labels without sacrificing visual appeal. - **Beverage Manufacturing:** Natural beta-carotene solutions with improved oxidation and light protection are broadening opportunities for vibrant, sustainable coloring in functional drinks, juices, and dairy alternatives. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Bio-Based Anti-Aging Ingredients](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/incosmetics-global-2026.md) - [Plant-Based Color Systems](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/exberry.md) - [Plant-Based Pet Food Colorings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gnt-exberry-pet-food-range.md) - [Fungal Protein Pigments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/michroma.md) - [Fermented Ingredient Flavorings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/isobionics-natural-ingredients.md) - [Beauty Ingredient Innovations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/incosmetics-global.md) - [Plant-Based Food Coloring Ranges](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/natural-colors-by-prodalim.md) - [Gut Health Booster Shots](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gut-health-booster.md) - [Sweet Potato Food Colorings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/exberry-organics-brilliant-pink.md)