China: review natural color labeling with the actual ingredient
Check ingredient identity, intended use and applicable Chinese labeling requirements rather than relying on “natural” as a label name.
Prepared by Colorwell · Localized 2026-09-11
Identify the ingredient’s role
A material may require different consideration as an ingredient, additive or blend depending on actual composition and use. The correct declaration cannot be separated from its intended function and regulatory basis.
Check the applicable Chinese requirements
Review food category, additive-use scope and relevant use conditions through the responsible regulatory or quality team. The linked references concern China’s GB 2760-2024 and official questions and answers on GB 7718-2025. Confirm the applicable version and implementation status for the specific product rather than treating this article as a current label approval. Other destinations require separate review.
Review claims as well as the ingredient list
Expressions such as “natural,” “plant extract” or “no synthetic colors added” need assessment for truthfulness, completeness and consumer understanding. Supplier promotion alone is insufficient to decide the final wording.
Retain the evidence
Keep specifications, reports, declarations, use-scope evidence, batch records and internal label-review records. A supplier saying the product can be used does not replace review of your actual formula, category and market. Do not automatically declare every product simply as “natural color.”
References and source material
Adapted from the Chinese sourceOriginal Chinese article — Colorwell
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