MIERLO, THE NETHERLANDS  — GNT is partnering with Plume Biotechnology, a UK-based startup focused on fermentation science and bioprocessing for natural colors, to develop a new plant-based Exberry color for food and beverages using fermentation. The partnership will enable GNT to expand its plant-based Exberry options, according to the company.

GNT said by producing colors through fermentation, the colors may have improved functionality as well as sustainable year-round production. After the raw materials are developed, GNT said they may be scaled up in larger bioreactors for industrial production, which involves keeping conditions level to ensure a high biomass yield and pigment concentration, according to the company.

“We are committed to leading the food coloring industry on sustainability,” said Finn Rieken, strategy director at GNT Group. “As well as promoting responsible agriculture and cutting emissions at our factories, we’re constantly exploring new options for highly sustainable colors that can deliver exceptional performance. We believe fermentation-based colors have huge potential to tick both those boxes. We are confident that working with Plume will allow us to deliver exciting new plant-based, sustainable solutions for food and beverage manufacturers around the world.”