Food Coloring 101

After 18 years in the baking industry, I know a thing or two about food coloring. One of the most common topics of conversation I had with my customers while owning my bakery supply shop was knowing what type of food coloring to use and what application to use.

This chart answers the most common questions without getting too technical. On this chart, you can find information on almost every type of food coloring, from the most purchased form found at your local grocery store (which has a very specific and limited application purpose) to beautiful metallic finishing paints.

I don’t consider myself a snob regarding supplies, but I don’t buy food coloring from local craft stores. After years of customer feedback, I can tell you with 100% certainty that not all products are created equal. I’ll leave it at that.

When working with luster or highlighter dust coloring: only blend with a high-grade alcohol like vodka. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, or if you are putting the coloring on cookies for kids, don’t stress. The alcohol will evaporate and leave just the pigment, which is what you need. Use the liquid sparingly. You want it to blend just past a paste consistency. Leftover coloring will dry and can be placed back into your original container. I don’t recommend cleaning your brush between uses, but just allow the same dedicated brush to dry. Use a different dedicated brush for each color. I also like putting this color into a dust pump so you can use it as a finishing spray. Dust pumps can be found at local craft stores and online.

So, I have provided the best brands and places to purchase those brands. I hope you enjoy!