Advances in the Research of Natural Pigments

Natural pigments, derived from plants, animals, microorganisms, and minerals, have garnered significant attention across industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and textiles due to their eco-friendly, safe, and biologically active properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the major types, bioactivities, extraction techniques, applications, and strategies for enhancing the stability of natural pigments. It examines the chemical characteristics and biosynthetic pathways of key pigments, highlighting their health-promoting effects, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The review compares conventional extraction methods with modern green extraction technologies, while also introducing innovative approaches such as microbial fermentation and synthetic biology in pigment production. Current industrial applications of natural pigments are discussed in detail, along with advanced techniques—such as microencapsulation, complex formation, and structural modification—employed to improve pigment stability. Finally, the review outlines existing challenges and future prospects in natural pigment research, offering a theoretical foundation for further exploration and practical utilization..