FAQs

We’ve got answers to some of your most asked questions:

Are Supernatural products safe for people with food allergies?

All Supernatural products are free from Top-9 food allergens by ingredient. However, with the exception of our 25LB cases*, all products are packaged in non-dedicated facilities, where allergens can be present. These partners follow strict and defined allergen control protocols (SQF) in their facilities and on their lines, including swabbing, but we ask that you review the chart below to determine whether our products are right for you. If at all in doubt, email us for more information. Less common allergens can still be present in natural colors in the form of lupine (butterfly pea), seeds (annatto), and corn (as maltodextrin, a processing agent).If you need more information, don’t be shy - just contact us!

Are Supernatural products safe for people with food dye sensitivities?

Yes. We use hyper-concentrated, natural colors from sources like veggies, spices and algaes instead of artificial dyes. These colorants won’t trigger dye allergies, sensitivities, hyperactivity disorders, or other known reactions to artificial colors. If your kids’ school bans artificial dyes in lunchboxes or birthday treats, you can safely use Supernatural products instead.

Where are Supernatural products manufactured?

All Supernatural products are made in the USA, with the exception of Starfetti and Dinomite, which are still made with our partner overseas. We’re based in NYC, and proud to manufacture, pack and warehouse Supernatural products in New Jersey, Indiana, Texas and Ohio.

Are Supernatural products vegan?

All Supernatural products are 100% vegan. Our non-gmo cane sugar is certified bone char free.

Why are your food colors in powdered form?

In liquid form, natural colors are more susceptible to fading. In powdered form, they stay brighter, longer, allowing you to use less and experience the rich, explosive hues that Supernatural colors are known for. Working with powdered colors is easy to get the hang of, and we broke it down in this handy how-to.

Will plant-based food colors add smells or flavors to my baking project?

After blending into batter, frosting, or other application, our plant-based colors are odorless and tasteless. But in raw form, they can smell and taste like their natural source (which could mean spicy, sweet, or vegetable-ish). Have no fear: Your cookies will taste like cookies, not carrots.

Is corn used to make natural food colors?

As of today, yes. Corn, in the form of maltodextrin, is a processing agent used in the creation of highly concentrated natural hues. So little exists in the final colorant that labeling law does not require its disclosure. However, if you are allergic to corn, you should know that traces of corn may exist in any natural color approved by the FDA.

We have been successful in replacing corn maltodextrin with tapioca maltodextrin with several of our manufacturers, but our volumes and influence are not yet what they need to be for color. With time and with growth, we hope to change this!

Is coconut a tree nut?

As a vegan alternative to dairy, we often use coconut milk. While coconut is classified as a tree nut, its proper categorization is a fruit. According to the AAAA I, the vast majority of people with nut allergies can safely consume coconut. If you have nut allergy, but aren’t sure if you can consume coconut, play it safe and get tested before you eat these products.

Can I save my leftover and unused color?

If you’ve already hydrated your colors with water, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Color that’s still in powder form can be stored in a cool, dark place until the expiration date.

Are Supernatural products Certified Organic and non-GMO?

We prioritize the sourcing of organic, non-gmo, and responsibly and sustainably sourced ingredients in everything we make, including non-gmo cane sugar and RSPO Certified Palm Oil. Supernatural products rely very heavily on natural colors, and most FDA-certified natural colors are neither organic or non-gmo certified. For the most part, that means we can only pursue those certifications for certain products in our family, for now. As natural color science continues to advance, we hope this changes (and we’ll be their biggest customer).