Ingredient · E160b

Annatto As A Color

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Annatto is used to impart a yellow to deep orange color in foods. It …

What is Annatto As A Color?

Annatto is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, native to tropical regions of the Americas. The seeds are ground into a powder or steeped in oil or water to extract their vibrant yellow-orange pigment.

Is Annatto As A Color vegan?

Annatto As A Color is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Annatto As A Color gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Annatto As A Color a major allergen?

Annatto is not derived from any of the 9 major allergens.

What is Annatto As A Color used for?

Annatto is used to impart a yellow to deep orange color in foods.

Is Annatto As A Color safe?

Annatto is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food coloring.

Why it's used

Annatto is used to impart a yellow to deep orange color in foods. It is commonly found in cheeses, butter, baked goods, and processed snacks, offering a natural alternative to artificial colorings.

Health notes

Annatto is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food coloring. It is not known to cause adverse health effects at typical consumption levels. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated annatto and found it safe for consumption.

Allergen info

Annatto is not derived from any of the 9 major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Annatto As A Color

Compare products →

Learn more

Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6: What the Evidence Says →

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: October 5, 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.