Annato Seed

Annatto seed comes from the achiote tree, native to tropical regions of the Americas. The seeds are ground to produce a yellow-orange powder or paste, which is then used to impart color to foods.

Annatto is primarily used as a natural food coloring, providing a yellow to deep orange hue. It is often found in dairy products like cheese and butter, as well as in baked goods, snacks, and processed meats.

Annatto is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food coloring. It contains various compounds, including carotenoids, which are antioxidants. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated annatto, and it is widely used without significant health concerns at typical consumption levels. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, though this is rare.