Betalains are natural nitrogenous pigment compounds found in flowers and fruits of multiple species that do not contain the more common colorant compounds anthocyanins. The two classes of betalains are the betacyanins (e.g. 1), and the betaxanthins (e.g. 2). Betaxanthins can be synthesized biomimetically by condensation of betalamic acid (3) and an appropriate amino acid or amine. These compounds are finding use as natural colorants in low acid foods and as natural antioxidants. These compounds are unstable in base regenerating (after work up) betalamic acid. We are investigating the spectral and acid base properties of a group of natural and “synthetic” betaxanthins as development towards water soluble, consumer safe, food and pharmaceutical colorants.