GNT Group has started the construction of another spirulina plant to double its production capacities for blue and green colouring foods.
New spirulina plant is coming up at its headquarters in Mierlo, the Netherlands.
The move to expand its production is prompted by growing demand for spirulina driven by increasing scepticism of consumers towards additive colourants. GNT said that the rapidly developing application possibilities of spirulina are also resulting in increased demand for it.
GNT Group managing director Hendrik Hoeck said: "More and more major food and beverage companies are announcing the replacement of artificial colours. Being the only natural alternative to artificial dyes such as patent blue V (E 131) or brilliant blue FCF (E 133), the alga plays a highly important role in natural colour solutions.
"Anticipating this role, GNT was the first to develop Colouring Foods from spirulina more than 20 years ago. That is why we can now offer an ample supply for current market needs and have the required processing technology and unique expertise to provide high-quality products and tailor-made application support."
Currently, the company produces spirulina that is sufficient to colour more than one billion portions of food annually.
The plant is expected to be cost effective due to high automation and low energy consumption.
The company plans to start operations at the plant in August 2017.
Hoeck added: "With the new plant, we are completely fit for the future. It will further expand and strengthen our position as clear market leader in the production of spirulina-based colour solutions."
