In this article, we will explore the topic of Colourant in depth, addressing its different facets, its importance today and its impact in different areas. We will delve into its origins, its evolution over time and the different perspectives that exist on the matter. Likewise, we will analyze how Colourant has influenced society, culture and people's daily lives, as well as its relevance in the global context. Throughout the article, we will present different expert opinions and relevant studies that will allow the reader to delve into a deep and complete analysis of Colourant, with the aim of enriching their understanding and knowledge of this topic.
A colourant/colour additive (British spelling) or colorant/color additive (American spelling) is a substance that is added or applied in order to change the colour of a material or surface. Colourants can be used for many purposes including printing, painting, and for colouring many types of materials such as foods and plastics. Colourants work by absorbing varying amounts of light at different wavelengths (or frequencies) of its spectrum, transmitting (if translucent) or reflecting the remaining light in straight lines or scattered.
Most colourants can be classified as dyes or pigments, or containing some combination of these. Typical dyes are formulated as solutions, while pigments are made up of solid particles suspended and are generally suspended in a vehicle (e.g., linseed oil). The colour a colourant imparts to a substance is mediated by other ingredients it is mixed with such as binders and fillers are added, for example in paints and inks. In addition, some colourants impart colour through reactions with other substances.
Colourants, or their constituent compounds, may be classified chemically as inorganic (often from a mineral source) and organic (often from a biological source).
In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates colourants for food safety and accurate labelling.[1]