Annatto

Annatto Latest News

Annatto seed growers pitch for government support as these seeds are the world’s second most important natural colourant after caramel.

About Annatto

• It is a natural food colouring and flavoring agent obtained from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana).
  • Achiote tree is native to tropical America and is also cultivated in Asia and Africa, especially in areas where coffee is grown.
  • The ripe fruits of annatto on drying yield annatto seed which serves as the raw material for the production of annatto colour.
  • The crop is completely rain-fed and requires no pesticides or fertilizers, just pruning of branches as part of crop management.
• Colour: The bold color comes from carotenoids, which are plant pigments that are found in the coating of the seed.

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Applications of Annatto

• The annatto seed is widely used as a natural food colour and dye.
• Its color can also be extracted from the seed and then added to foods as a dye.
• Some also use annatto to boost the flavor of certain dishes. 
• It has a mild, peppery flavor when used in large amounts as well as a nutty and floral scent.
• Annatto is rich in several key antimicrobial compounds, which can limit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. 

Source: TH