We are visual creatures. As much as we appreciate taste, we first feed with our eyes. That’s why food dyes are such a fantastic way to transform even plain substances into exciting creations with a single drop of color. Now, food scientists have a new reason to celebrate as researchers have discovered a new organic blue dye that can be used as a natural alternative to synthetic options.

A High Demand for Natural Dye Alternatives

As more and more consumers are beginning to look into healthier alternatives, it’s no surprise the same is happening in the world of food dyes. Researchers are hard at work trying to find as many natural alternatives as possible, and have already been able to find cyan blue food dye. That’s only the beginning though, as the market for natural food dyes is expected to reach $3.2 billion by 2027.

The Elusive Natural Blue Food Dye

The reason food scientists are so excited about a natural blue food coloring is that it’s generally really difficult to obtain. The blue dyes traditionally used in food are usually a combination of other colors using red or purple dye as a base. The newly discovered cyan blue coloring, however, is a complete gamechanger. Researchers were able to obtain it from red cabbage, which is as natural as it gets.

The even better news is that you can mix the cyan blue with other natural colorings and create stronger, more vibrant colors.

Red Cabbage and Blue Coloring

Even though there are blue anthocyanins found in red cabbage, the amount is not enough to warrant using the vegetable for commercial extraction of blue dye. Researchers came up with a smarter plan. They used enzymes to transform other anthocyanins found in red cabbage to obtain the elusive blue color. That’s how they were able to extract much larger quantities from red cabbage, thus creating a new stable source of natural blue dye for the food industry.

If you’re bored of sitting at home and staring at the same four walls, then why don’t you go on a city walking tour? A virtual one, of course. There are so many amazing virtual activities that you can do to pass the time, but this is perhaps one of our favorites to date. All you need is internet access and the ability to work Google Maps. When you’ve got this ready to go, all you need is a sense of adventure.

Old Havana Walking Tour — Havana, Cuba

Havana is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and it seems as though this Cuban city is steeped in history. The cobblestones and ancient architecture are a feast for the eyes, and you can see this on a walking tour around Old Havana. To start this tour, drop your Google Maps figure on the Plaza de la Catedral, and you can then make your way away from the square and into the heart of Old Havana.

Arcades And Laneways Walking Tour — Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne is known for being hip and cool, and you can see this for yourself as you make your way down the arcades and laneways of this city. Featuring impressive street art and bustling boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and cafes, you can check out the whole area while also feeling as though you’re there and walking amongst those who have previously been able to explore Melbourne.

Old Bangkok Walking Tour — Bangkok, Thailand

If you’ve never been to Bangkok but have always wanted to go, then why not make use of a virtual walking tour? You can start this tour at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and there’s no doubt about the fact that you could spend hours exploring this temple alone. When you venture away from the intricate architecture, though, you’ll still be impressed.

Ready for a virtual walking tour? All you need is Google Maps!