How Is Annatto Extract Made?

Annatto extracts are obtained from the outer layer of the seeds of the tropical tree Bixa orellana. The principal pigment in annatto extract is cis-bixin, which is contained in the resinous coating of the seed itself.

How is annatto produced?

The food colour annatto is obtained from the outer layer of the seeds of the tropical tree Bixa orellana L. ... Processing is primarily done by abrading off of the pigment in an appropriate suspending agent for production of the native bixin from the seed.

Is annatto extract color natural?

Annatto extract is a natural food colouring, listed in Europe under the E number E160b, which provides yellow, orange and orange-red colour shades. It has been used in Europe for over 200 years, and gives English Red Leicester cheese and French Mimolette their typical orange colour.