Ingredient

Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
These ingredients are natural colorants added to foods to provide or enhance yellow and …

What is Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract?

Beta carotene is a pigment found in carrots and other colorful fruits and vegetables. Annatto extract comes from the seeds of the achiote tree. Both are used to give foods a yellow to orange color.

Is Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract vegan?

Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract gluten-free?

Neither is related to gluten.

Is Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract used for?

These ingredients are natural colorants added to foods to provide or enhance yellow and orange hues.

Is Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract safe?

Beta carotene and annatto extract are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as food colorings.

Why it's used

These ingredients are natural colorants added to foods to provide or enhance yellow and orange hues. They are commonly found in dairy products like yogurt and cheese, as well as in baked goods and beverages.

Health notes

Beta carotene and annatto extract are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as food colorings. Beta carotene is also a precursor to vitamin A in the body. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these colorants. No significant health concerns are associated with their typical consumption levels in food.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. Beta carotene is plant-derived. Annatto is also plant-derived. Neither is related to gluten.

Foods that contain Beta Carotene & Annatto Extract

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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.