Ingredient · E160b

Annatto Colour

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Annatto is added to foods to provide a yellow to orange color, mimicking the …

What it is

Annatto color is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). The seeds are ground and extracted using water or oil to produce a range of yellow to red hues. It is one of the most widely used natural colorants in the food industry.

Why it's used

Annatto is added to foods to provide a yellow to orange color, mimicking the appearance of egg yolks or butter. It is commonly found in dairy products like cheese and butter, baked goods, snacks, and some processed meats and sauces.

Health notes

In the US, annatto extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food colorant. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated annatto, and it is approved for use in many countries. At typical consumption levels, annatto is not associated with adverse health effects. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, though this is rare.

Allergen info

Annatto is not derived from any of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It is also gluten-free.

Products containing Annatto Colour

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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.