Dyes and pigments are used in agriculture primarily for seed colouring — to visually distinguish treated or certified seeds from untreated ones, preventing accidental consumption by humans or animals, and helping farmers and distributors identify different seed varieties or treatment batches. They also help confirm even distribution of seed treatment chemicals (fungicides, insecticides, growth promoters) during the coating process. Additionally, pigments and dyes are used to colour fertilisers, pesticide concentrates, and agricultural films for product identification and brand differentiation.

Dyes and pigments used for seed coating must be non-phytotoxic (must not harm seed germination or seedling growth), non-toxic to humans and animals, compatible with the seed treatment binders and other active ingredients in the formulation, stable in the aqueous dispersion form, capable of providing uniform coverage on the seed surface, resistant to dusting off during handling and planting, and preferably available in a free-flowing liquid form for accurate dosing in seed treatment machines.

Seed treatment is the process of applying protective or growth-enhancing substances (fungicides, insecticides, bio-stimulants, micronutrients) to seeds before planting, to protect against soil-borne diseases, pests, and to improve establishment. Colourants — typically water-based pigment dispersions — are mixed with the active ingredients and binder in the seed treatment formulation and applied as a thin, uniform coat on the seed surface. The colour also serves as a warning that the seed has been chemically treated and should not be consumed.

Seed coatings commonly use bright, distinctive colours to clearly mark treated seeds and to help brands differentiate their products. Common colours include red (using Pigment Red 2 or Pigment Red 112), blue (Pigment Blue 15.3), green (Pigment Green 7), orange (Pigment Orange 16 or 34), and pink. Regulatory requirements in some countries specify minimum colour intensity to ensure adequate visibility as a safety warning. The colour must be bright enough to be clearly visible on the seed surface even after drying.

India is a major agricultural economy with a large seed treatment industry and a growing demand for seed colouring solutions. Vipul Organics Ltd. is a leading seed colouring pigment manufacturer and supplier in India, offering the SunSeed® range — high-pigment, water-based pigment dispersions specifically developed for seed coating applications. Available as free-flowing liquids for easy pump dosing in automated seed treatment machines, SunSeed® dispersions are non-phytotoxic, eco-friendly, and supplied to seed companies and agrochemical formulators across India and internationally.