The invention provides a novel class of natural azaphilone pigments, called atrorosins, and methods for their production. The methods for the production of atrorosins include production by fermentation using a fungal species belonging to the genus Talaromyces, preferably the species Talaromycesatroroseus. The use of the novel atrorosins pigments as a colouring agent for food items and/or non-food items, and for cosmetics.
