Food coloring or food coloring (pigment additives) refers to pigments or substances that, when added to food or beverages, cause them to transfer color. These substances are found in various forms of liquids, powders, gels and pastes. Food colors are used in both commercial food production and in home cooking. Due to the degree of safety (health) and general availability, food dyes are used in a variety of non-food applications such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, handicrafts and medical equipment.