One of the leading colorant groups, Ampacet Corp., forecasts increased use of special effects and high-technology inks to further intensify the visual impact of bottles and other packaging forms, such as flexible pouches and cartons.

Globally, pearlescent and interference pigments have become the visual norm, says Linda Carroll, Market Development Manager at Ampacet. To satisfy consumers’ demands for increased multisensory interaction, these traditional additives will be used in non-traditional ways, such as in combination with fluorescence and other enhancers to add shelf “pop.”

Carroll also foresees a rise in the use of synthetic pigments to enhance color richness, along with the use of multisensory additives (aroma enhancers) to achieve shelf differentiation.

Recent color palettes have transitioned from cool undertones to ones of warmth and strength heading into 2006-2007, with variations of orange and purple in the lead.