Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Potential of New Plant Sources as Raw Materials for Obtaining Natural Pigments/Dyes

Bruna Melo Miranda; Orlando Vilela; Sibele Santos Fernandes; Gabriela da Rocha Lemos Mendes; Carla L. Schwan; María José Aliaño–González; Gerardo F. Barbero; Deborah Murowaniecki Otero

Agronomy · 2025

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Summary

This review paper examines the potential of novel or underutilised plant species as raw material sources for natural pigments and dyes, likely surveying a range of phytochemical colorants and their agronomic or industrial viability. Drawing on an interdisciplinary author group with expertise in food chemistry and agronomy, the paper contributes to the growing body of literature seeking sustainable, plant-based alternatives to synthetic colorants. The review likely contextualises findings within food safety, sustainability, and circular bioeconomy frameworks.

UK applicability

Whilst the study is not UK-specific, its findings are broadly applicable to UK food manufacturers, cosmetic producers, and agricultural stakeholders seeking to source or cultivate natural pigment-yielding crops, particularly in the context of growing regulatory and consumer pressure to replace synthetic additives with natural alternatives.

Key measures

Pigment type and concentration (e.g. anthocyanins, carotenoids, betalains, chlorophylls); plant species assessed; extraction yield; colorimetric properties; stability indicators

Outcomes reported

The study likely reviewed and evaluated the pigment-yielding potential of underutilised or novel plant species, assessing the types, concentrations, and stability of natural colorants such as anthocyanins, carotenoids, chlorophylls, and betalains. It may also have considered extraction methodologies and the suitability of these plant sources as alternatives to synthetic dyes.

Theme
General food systems / other
Subject
Food ingredients & bioactive compounds
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
International
System type
Horticulture
DOI
10.3390/agronomy15020405
Catalogue ID
NRmo3f02hq-0b0

Topic tags

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