DKSH and GNT Expand Plant-Based Colour Solutions for Vietnam

Ingredient distributor DKSH has expanded its partnership with GNT to develop the market for EXBERRY plant-based colours in Vietnam, giving local food and beverage manufacturers access to natural-colour solutions alongside technical and regulatory support. GNT announced the appointment on 14 October, followed by DKSH’s announcement on 15 October.

The agreement covers business development, distribution and logistics, as well as formulation guidance, technical services and regulatory support. EXBERRY colours are made from fruit, vegetables and other edible plants, and are intended for applications including beverages, bakery, confectionery, dairy, snacks and sauces.

For manufacturers considering a shift from synthetic to plant-based colours, access to an ingredient is only one part of the development process. Colour performance can vary according to a product’s acidity, heat treatment, light exposure and storage conditions. A shade that works in a confectionery filling, for example, may behave differently in an acidic beverage or a dairy formulation.

Local technical support can help product developers assess these variables earlier, test colour stability and refine formulations before moving to larger production trials. Regulatory guidance is also important: manufacturers need to confirm that the chosen colour and its intended use comply with applicable Vietnamese requirements, rather than assuming that approval in another market automatically applies.

The partnership does not itself establish that every EXBERRY colour is suitable for every application. Manufacturers will still need product-specific technical data and trials to assess shade, stability, sensory impact and cost at commercial scale.

As clean-label positioning continues to influence product development, the practical challenge is to combine a naturally sourced colour with consistent appearance, shelf life and production performance.