A coloring system and method for use is provided. The coloring system comprises a diluent and colorant in particle form. The dilution ratio and particle size can be utilized to control the color of the system during distribution and storage. The colorant can be any desired color, for example, brown, red, etc., and the system can be made such that it is generally invisible when applied to the product. When the food product with the associated coloring system is exposed to heat, e.g. radiation, the colorant becomes visible providing color to the food product in a preselected region. A carrier can also be provided in the coloring system to provide shelf life stability to the coloring system when the coloring system is applied to the food prior to distribution.