#Denmark #Copenhagen #natural colors #Chromologics #Natu.Red

Chromologics: Pioneering Natural Colors

Danish biotech company Chromologics has recently announced a significant funding milestone, raising €7 million from reputable investors, including Novo Holdings and the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO). This new round of investment brings the company's total capital raised to nearly €20 million, positioning it to expand its groundbreaking work in the realm of fermentation-derived natural colors.

The Future of Food Coloring

This funding arrives at a crucial time as Chromologics prepares to finalize regulatory submissions for its flagship product, Natu.Red®, with both the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The aim is to facilitate the upcoming product launch and enhance production capabilities in alignment with a large-scale contract manufacturing organization (CMO) that boasts high-capacity fermentation facilities.

Founded in 2017 as a spin-off from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), Chromologics is creating robust natural color alternatives that meet growing consumer demands for healthier, sustainable options compared to synthetic colorants.

Addressing Industry Needs

Gerit Tolborg, CEO of Chromologics, emphasized the importance of investor support during these transformative times. "In periods of changing priorities, we truly appreciate the ongoing trust in our mission. Biomanufacturing is vital for creating stable food supply chains, requiring committed investors who grasp the complexities of innovation," said Tolborg. The confidence shared by existing shareholders reinforces belief in both Chromologics' unique technology and its significant market potential.

Meanwhile, Thomas Grotkjær, Partner at Planetary Health Investments, expressed enthusiasm about Chromologics’ progress and the intensifying demand for sustainable, natural color solutions. "The company's ability to develop a distinct red color and the maturity of its technology have already positioned it favorably in the market," Grotkjær stated, indicating the company's competitive edge over existing solutions.

Timing is Everything

This investment couldn't have come at a more strategic moment. The food coloring industry is witnessing a surge in demand for natural alternatives due to increasing scrutiny and bans on synthetic colorants. Notably, in the U.S., the ban on synthetic Red 3 has heightened interest in effective, heat- and pH-stable natural color solutions. Chromologics' Natu.Red® fits this demand perfectly, promising a high-performing option that is not only vegan-friendly but also operates independently of seasonal and geographic constraints.

Sustainable Solutions

Furthermore, the innovative approach toward fermentation-based food coloring is part of broader efforts to drive the green transition. These methods offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional extraction processes that rely on fruits and vegetables, which necessitate extensive land, water, and agricultural inputs. Natu.Red® is designed to deliver consistent quality while addressing these environmental challenges.

Over the last four years, Chromologics has leveraged insights from over 90 food manufacturers across Europe and the United States in trials, meticulously refining the performance and application potential of Natu.Red®. Positive customer interest has surged across multiple sectors, including meat, confectionery, and plant-based products, thus illustrating the versatile applicability of Chromologics' offerings.

Looking Ahead

The commitment to advancing regulatory milestones and commercial readiness continues unabated. Now, with solid backing from investors and a clear pathway to market, Chromologics is well-equipped to introduce its first natural colorant. According to Rodrigo Hortega de Velasco, Director at Döhler Ventures, Chromologics is strategically set to spearhead the upcoming shift to more natural, high-performing ingredients, which will not only cater to regulatory demands but also satisfy increasing consumer preferences for healthier food choices.

As Chromologics steps closer to launching its innovative product, the potential for a new generation of sustainable food colors appears bright. With a focus on efficacy, compliance, and ecological responsibility, Chromologics aims to redefine industry standards for natural colorants while contributing to a greener future in food production.

For more information, visit Chromologics.