Ingredient

Annatto And Caramel

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Annatto provides a yellow to orange hue, while caramel offers shades from light brown …

What it is

Annatto is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, native to tropical regions of the Americas. Caramel color is produced by heating carbohydrates, such as sugar or corn syrup, under controlled conditions.

Why it's used

Annatto provides a yellow to orange hue, while caramel offers shades from light brown to dark brown. They are used to enhance or restore color in a wide variety of foods, including baked goods, dairy products, beverages, and processed snacks.

Health notes

Both annatto and caramel colors are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. Regulatory bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated these colorings. While generally considered safe, some individuals may experience sensitivities or allergic reactions to annatto.

Allergen info

Annatto is not derived from one of the nine major allergens. Caramel color is typically derived from plant-based sugars and is not a major allergen. Neither contains gluten.

Products containing Annatto And Caramel

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.