Salt & Annatto 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 processed into a paste or liquid extract, yielding a color ranging from yellow to deep orange-red. Salt is often added as a preservative and to help disperse the annatto color evenly.

Annatto is primarily used to impart a yellow to orange-red color to foods, mimicking the appearance of butter or egg yolk. It is commonly found in cheeses, butter, ice cream, baked goods, and snack foods. The salt in this blend also acts as a mild preservative and can aid in the even distribution of the colorant.

Annatto is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food coloring. It is a natural colorant and is not subject to the same regulatory scrutiny as synthetic dyes. While generally considered safe, some individuals may have sensitivities. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated annatto and found it safe for consumption. No significant health controversies are associated with annatto at typical intake levels.