Gardenia (genipin) blue has been approved for use as a color additive exempt from certification by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) effective August 29, 2025. After the approval, San-Ei Gen F.F.I., Inc. will be releasing new food colorant formulations "San-Ei Blue (R) G-BF30 WSP" and "San-Ei Blue (R) G-BFA20 WSP" to produce processed food products distributed in the U.S.
Gardenia (genipin) blue can be utilized in processed food products, such as sports drinks, flavored water (soft drinks other than carbonated beverages), fruit juice beverages, tea drinks, hard candies, soft candies, etc., which are manufactured as well as sold in the U.S.
The newly released Gardenia (genipin) blue formulations were originally developed by San-Ei Gen F.F.I. and their proprietary technologies are protected by U.S. patents. The products have higher heat with light stability than other naturally derived blue color components and are characterized by a vivid blue color. These products can also be mixed with yellow to exhibit green or with red to make a purple tone or can be combined with any color of choice to attain the desired color.
The Gardenia (genipin) blue products can express highly stable blue, green and purple colors that cannot be achieved with a spirulina extract, a conventionally used and naturally derived blue color.
San-Ei Gen F.F.I., Inc. has a mission to provide the population with healthy life and enjoyment of food through safe and secure food additives.
The company integrates five research and development areas including "Flavor," "Color," "Texture," "Taste," as well as "Health & Function," and utilizes state-of-the-art technology and sensitivity cultivated over 100 years.
San-Ei Gen F.F.I. will continue to manufacture new food value along with that contribute to realizing rich dietary culture with sustainable society.