E160b: Annatto

What is E160b?

Annatto (E160b) is a natural yellow-orange colouring whose main pigments are the carotenoids bixin and norbixin. Bixin is fat-soluble while norbixin is water-soluble, so different preparations suit different foods.

Origin and production

It is extracted from the waxy coating of the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), native to tropical Central and South America, where it has long been used as a spice and dye.

Why is it used?

Annatto is the colour behind many orange cheeses such as Red Leicester and Cheddar varieties, and it also colours butter-style spreads, snacks, smoked fish, desserts and baked goods. It can give a faintly nutty, peppery flavour at higher levels.

Vegan, vegetarian and halal

Annatto is plant-derived and suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It does not usually raise halal or kosher concerns.

Safety and regulation

Annatto extracts are authorised as food colours in the EU with maximum levels for specific foods. EFSA re-evaluated them and set acceptable daily intakes for bixin and norbixin.

Common in