Ingredient
Is Annatto Extract Safe?
Caution
Annatto extract is a natural food coloring derived from the reddish-orange seeds of the annatto tree (Bixa orellana). The color is extracted from the seeds using solvents like vegetable oil or alkali solutions.
Why it’s in your food
The manufacturer’s reason.
Manufacturers use annatto extract to impart a range of yellow to orange colors to food products, serving as a natural alternative to synthetic dyes.
Community scan data
How it shows up in the wild.
Found in 1 productwe’ve analyzed.
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Rated Clean
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Where to find it
Products containing Annatto Extract.
1 product in our database.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Where does annatto extract come from?▾
Annatto extract comes from the seeds of the annatto tree, which is native to tropical regions of the Americas. The seeds are covered in a thin, reddish pulp that contains the coloring pigments.
How is annatto extract prepared for use in food?▾
The color pigments, bixin and norbixin, are extracted from the annatto seeds. This can be done using vegetable oils to produce an oil-soluble extract, or with alkaline solutions to create a water-soluble form, making it versatile for different food applications.
Can Nonna use annatto in her cooking?▾
While the extract itself is a modern preparation, the annatto seeds have been used traditionally in many cuisines, particularly Latin American and Caribbean, for centuries. Nonna might not have the extract, but she would understand coloring food with natural plant sources.
Check your own pantry.
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