China: food-color checks under GB 2760-2024
Establish the Chinese food category before reviewing the color identity, conditions and supporting documents.
Prepared by Colorwell · Localized 2026-09-11
A China-specific framework
GB 2760 uses food categories to define additive-use scope. Similar commercial food names can fall into different categories, so classify the actual product before deciding whether an ingredient is appropriate. This article does not establish requirements for another destination market.
Read the actual entry
Check the formal color name, function, food scope and any maximum-use or residue condition in the applicable original text. For a blend, examine each coloring component and other ingredient rather than only the commercial blend name. Natural origin is not automatic permission.
Keep supplier and internal evidence
Retain qualifications, specifications, reports, batch records, source information, labeling proposals and relevant declarations. Connect the records to the actual product so the basis can be traced during internal or external review.
Use the applicable official version
The cited Chinese National Health Commission and government publications provide official reference routes for GB 2760-2024. Check the standard, announcements and subsequent amendments with the responsible reviewer. This overview supplies no product-specific permitted dose or final compliance decision.
References and source material
Adapted from the Chinese sourceOriginal Chinese article — Colorwell
Continue exploring
How to assess a natural color supplier
Review documentation, application reasoning, batch controls and handling of abnormal results alongside price.
Read the guide InsightNatural and synthetic colors: compare the actual application
Consider source, product positioning, stability, total cost and destination requirements together.
Read the guide