Alternate Names

Annatto Extract, Bixa Orellana, Bixin, Norbixin, Roucou

Description

Derivative of the tropical achiote tree. Used to produce a yellow to pink coloring; has a slightly sweet and peppery flavor. Widely used food coloring in meat-products, dairy, and baked goods.

Additional Information

Commonly found in Latin America and Caribbean cuisines. The seeds of the achiote tree are used to make lipstick and body paint. The fruit itself is not edible.

Found In

dairy products, bologna, frankfurters, margarine, cereal, ice cream, baked goods, rice, cheese, smoked fish

Possible Health Effects

Studies indicate that it may cause allergic reactions in some people. Also may cause hypersensitivity reactions.

Allergy Information

May cause allergic reaction in sensitive individuals

Online Resources/Related

• Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Natural Colourants and Dyestuffs: Major Colourants and Dyestuffs Entering International Trade (Annatto Seed and Its Extracts), 1995, Forestry Department
• Archives of Toxicology , Hypersensitivity Reactions to Food Colours with Special Reference to the Natural Colour Annatto Extract (Butter Colour), 1978, Mikkelsen H, Larsen JC, Tarding F

Print Resources

• Statham, Bill. Eat Safe: The Truth about Additives from Aspartame to Xanthan Gum. Running Press, 2008
• Winter, Ruth. A Consumer's Dictionary of Food Additives, 7th Edition: Descriptions in Plain English of More Than 12,000 Ingredients Both Harmful and Desirable Found in Foods. Three Rivers Press, 2009
• Minich, Deanna M. An A-Z Guide to Food Additives: Never Eat What You Can't Pronounce. Conari Press, 2009

Copyright May 20, 2010 Be Food Smart