May Appear As Brown Flecks

This ingredient is a natural coloring agent derived from the annatto seed, which comes from the achiote tree native to tropical regions of the Americas. The seeds are ground to produce a powder or paste, which can then be used to impart a yellow to deep orange-red color.

Annatto is used to add a yellow to orange-red color to foods. It is often found in dairy products like cheese and butter, as well as in baked goods, snacks, and processed meats. Manufacturers use it as a natural alternative to artificial food colorings.

Annatto is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food coloring. It is made from a plant source and is not known to cause adverse health effects in typical amounts. JECFA has evaluated annatto and established an acceptable daily intake.