Extractives Of Annato

Annatto extractives are natural colorants derived from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). The seeds are processed to extract the carotenoid compounds, primarily bixin and norbixin, which give them their characteristic reddish-orange hue.

Annatto extractives are used to impart a yellow to deep orange color to a wide variety of foods. They are commonly found in dairy products like cheese and butter, as well as in baked goods, snacks, processed meats, and some beverages.

In the U.S., annatto extractives are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food colorant. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated annatto and its components, generally finding them safe for consumption at typical levels. While some individuals may experience sensitivities, scientific evidence does not link annatto consumption at normal dietary levels to adverse health effects.