Turmeric & Annatto Extracts

Turmeric extract comes from the root of the turmeric plant, a spice native to Southeast Asia. Annatto extract comes from the seeds of the achiote tree, found in tropical regions of the Americas. Both are natural colorants that give foods a yellow to orange hue.

These extracts are used to add yellow and orange color to a variety of foods. They are commonly found in dairy products like cheese, baked goods, cereals, and beverages.

Turmeric and annatto extracts are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. They are widely consumed in typical food amounts and are not associated with adverse health effects. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated these colorants. Research into the health benefits of curcumin, a compound in turmeric, is ongoing, but it is not typically consumed in amounts large enough in food to have significant medicinal effects.