Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is the green pigment that gives plants their colour and enables photosynthesis. In the nutraceutical industry, it is most commonly supplied as sodium copper chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic derivative that is water-soluble, heat-stable, and suitable for gummy manufacturing. It is one of the most familiar and commercially understood natural colourants and wellness ingredients across EU and US markets.

Brands use chlorophyll in gummies primarily for its natural green colour and for general wellness positioning, often as part of detox or daily wellness ranges. Because chlorophyll has no EFSA-authorised health claims under Reg. (EU) 432/2012, pack copy must rely on co-formulated nutrients such as Vitamin C or Magnesium to carry authorised claims. DAT reviews all claim wording per project before final label approval.

Origin and history

Chlorophyll was first isolated in 1817 by French chemists Joseph Bienaimé Caventou and Pierre Joseph Pelletier. The name comes from the Greek words *chloros* (green) and *phyllon* (leaf). It has been used as a natural colourant in food and beverages for over a century, and its use in dietary supplements grew significantly in the mid-20th century with the development of sodium copper chlorophyllin, which improved stability and solubility.

Industrially, chlorophyll is extracted from plant sources such as alfalfa, mulberry leaf, or nettle. The extraction process typically involves solvent extraction followed by purification and, for sodium copper chlorophyllin, a chemical conversion that replaces the central magnesium ion with copper to improve stability. The final product is a dark green powder that is water-soluble and heat-stable, making it well-suited for gummy manufacturing.

Scientific overview

Chlorophyll is a porphyrin compound structurally similar to haemoglobin, with a central magnesium ion instead of iron. In the body, it is poorly absorbed in its native form, which is why sodium copper chlorophyllin — with improved bioavailability — is the preferred form for supplements. The copper ion in sodium copper chlorophyllin also contributes to the ingredient's stability and colour intensity.

Bioavailability of chlorophyll is limited, with most studies using sodium copper chlorophyllin at doses ranging from 100 mg to 500 mg per day. The ingredient is heat-stable and soluble in water, making it compatible with gummy manufacturing processes. However, its green colour is inherent and will affect the final appearance of the gummy, which may not suit all brand aesthetics.

From a manufacturing perspective, chlorophyll is cost-effective and easy to work with. It does not require special handling or encapsulation, and it can be incorporated directly into gummy formulations. The grassy taste is acceptable to most consumers but may require masking in certain formulations. Payload constraints should be checked per project, as higher doses may affect gummy texture and mouthfeel.

Chlorophyll is one of the most familiar and commercially understood natural colourants and wellness ingredients across EU and US markets. Brands use it primarily for its natural green colour and for general wellness positioning, often as part of detox, daily wellness, or beauty-from-within ranges. It is a low-cost ingredient that adds visual appeal and a natural positioning to gummy products.

From a formulation and manufacturing perspective, chlorophyll is heat-stable, water-soluble, and compatible with standard gummy production processes. The grassy taste is acceptable to most consumers, though some brands may choose to mask it with fruit flavours. The green colour is inherent and will affect gummy appearance, which can be a differentiator for brands seeking a natural aesthetic. DAT confirms final formulation and dosing per project based on payload constraints and target market.

For pack copy, brands must be disciplined about claim wording. Chlorophyll has no EFSA-authorised health claims under Reg. (EU) 432/2012, so all health claims must come from co-formulated nutrients. Internal deodorant and detox positioning are not permitted as health claims in EU consumer-facing copy. DAT reviews all claim wording per project before final label approval. Certification status (vegan, kosher, halal) and shelf-life claims are confirmed per project and batch documentation.