Glimmer Color

Glimmer Color is a general term for food colorings that add a shimmering or pearlescent effect to foods. These colors are often made from mica-based pigments or other approved food-grade ingredients that reflect light. They are used to make food visually appealing.

Manufacturers add glimmer color to make food products visually appealing by giving them a metallic or shimmery look. It is commonly found in desserts, confectionery, beverages, and decorative elements for baked goods.

Food color additives, including those that provide a shimmering effect, are regulated by the FDA and must be approved for their intended use. Many "glimmer" colors use pearlescent pigments, which are often made from mica coated with approved color additives like titanium dioxide or iron oxides. Titanium dioxide is currently permitted by the FDA as a food additive. However, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded in 2021 that titanium dioxide could no longer be considered safe as a food additive, and it was subsequently banned in the EU in 2022. JECFA has evaluated some pearlescent pigments and their components, and their safety is assessed based on the specific ingredients used.