Scientists from VTT in Finland have discovered a new source of natural pigments, according to a report published by Reuters. The team describes autumn leaves as a ‘rich, untapped source of raw materials’.

“Those pigments they are really wanted nowadays because they are natural pigments,” said Liisa Nohynek VTT Senior Scientist. “They could be used in cosmetics.”

The team is developing a process to break down the leaves using a bioreactor and solvent, eventually separating the pigments and compounds.

Added Nohynek, “So far these natural colourants are taken from carrots, algae and microbes but this is a new source of these pigments.”