DYE-FREE OPTION

Effective immediately, we are happy to offer our customers a dye-free option for custom sugar cookies (because of their delicate chemistry, a dye-free option for macarons still TBD). Currently, we are using PRSM powder colors and black cocoa (for black). From their website:

“PRSM sugars and baking products are 100% Naturally colored.

Flavorlessly formulated and Hand Crafted with 100% Natural Ingredients. 

No Artificial Preservatives

No Dyes or FD & C's

All Natural Color Enrichment process

NO GMO's

Kosher/Vegan Product”

Here is an ingredient list of the colors we currently have in stock for immediate use (copied directly from product canister):

  • SUPER RED: beet, red radish, purple carrot, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • RED: red radish, organic tapioca, maltodextrin, citric acid

  • BRIGHT ORANGE: turmeric, red radish, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • ORANGE: annatto, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • SUNSET YELLOW: beta carotene, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • YELLOW: turmeric, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • LEAF GREEN: turmeric, spirulina, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • BETA GREEN: beta carotene, spirulina, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • SPRING GREEN: turmeric, spirulina, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • EMERALD: turmeric, spirulina, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • GREEN TURQUOISE: turmeric, spirulina, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • BLUE: purple grape, baking soda, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • ROYAL BLUE: spirulina, beet, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • SKY BLUE: blue spirulina, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • BLUE TURQUOISE: spirulina extract, citric acid, dextrin

  • REGAL PURPLE: blue spirulina, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • DEEP PURPLE: beet, spirulina, purple grape, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • VIOLET: spirulina, beet, purple grape

  • FUCHSIA: beet, spirulina, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • PINK: beet, organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • BROWN: caramel (color), organic tapioca, maltodextrin

  • DARK BROWN: caramel, vegetable gum

  • BLACK: purple grape, caramel, baking soda

    • pure black cocoa may also be used for a deeper black color

  • WHITE: titanium dioxide (ultra-pure food grade)

POSSIBLE LIMITATIONS:

AVAILABILITY

Based on demand, we will try to keep all colors in stock for ready use. However, while PRSM colors is a small, southern California based business, they are unfortunately not available with a quick click of an Amazon prime button. We try to keep a consistent eye on stock, but just be aware that specific colors may not be available at a given time.

INCREASED COST

There are many factors taken into account when we decide on a price increase, and it’s a consideration not taken lightly. Cookies made with dye-free colors are available at a cost that is 25 cents more per cookie because 1) the colors are more expensive; 2) more difficult to obtain (typically no free shipping/longer processing times; and 3) likely require more pigment for the desired effect. These are just some reasons for an increased price relative to our regular cookies, but for the quality in taste and design, we hope you agree that it’s worth the quarter!

TASTE

Although the PRSM site claims colors to be flavorless, in-person testing reveals that some colors definitely do have a distinct taste to them, especially with more pigment. For example, the reds have a beet flavor to them; not necessarily super strong, but it’s important to know that it’s there. On the flip side, artificially-produced red also has a distinct taste to it, especially with more pigment used. Combined with the cookie itself, the taste factor is reduced, but important to note it is there.

COLOR MATCHING

We always strive to make your set look exactly how you want it. Because dye-free colors are made with natural ingredients, there may be some limitations in terms of specific shades (e.g., sage green, dusty rose). We purchased the 24-pack of colors in order to try and accommodate all possible shades.

EDIBLE MARKERS

Currently, there is no commercially-available product for dye-free edible markers, so any designs requiring fine line/drawing work may not be feasible for dye-free orders. We know of some products currently in development, and will add them to our arsenal of supplies once they are available.

SHIMMERS/SPRINKLES

Because these items are rarely used, these will be ordered on a case-by-case basis and subject to availability.

THE BOTTOM LINE

For the past 8 years, we have always been committed to providing you with the freshest, most delicious product possible. This will never change. What will also never change is our commitment to providing you with choice whenever we can, when it comes to meeting your needs and the needs of your family or event. The bottom line is, we will ALWAYS remain in compliance with all local and federal regulations with all of our products. Rest assured that whatever route you choose for your special treats, you can trust Brown Box Bakeshop with your custom cookie needs!

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS? Don’t be afraid to ask! Please use the contact form or email directly at brownboxbakeshop@gmail.com!