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E160b Annatto, designated as E160b, is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the Bixa orellana (achiote) tree.
E160b Annatto is widely used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals for its vibrant yellow to orange-red hues.
The primary active compounds, bixin and norbixin, are carotenoids that are fat- and water-soluble, respectively, offering broad formulation versatility.
CAS Number: 1393-63-1 (bixin), 6983-79-5 (norbixin)
EC Number: 215-735-4 (bixin), 230-445-2 (norbixin)
Molecular Formula: C24H30O4 (bixin), C24H26O4 (norbixin)
Molecular Weight: 394.49 g/mol (bixin), 378.46 g/mol (norbixin)
Synonyms: Annatto, E160b, Annatto extract, Bixin, Norbixin, Achiote extract, Natural orange color, CI Natural Orange 4, Bixa orellana pigment, Annatto pigment, Annatto food dye, Annatto oil, Annatto water-soluble color, Annatto suspension, Annatto powder colorant, Natural yellow-red dye, Annatto food-grade color, Annatto natural additive, Annatto coloring agent, Annatto seed extract, Annatto oleoresin, Natural carotenoid E160b, Fat-soluble bixin, Water-soluble norbixin, Annatto emulsion, Annatto concentrate, Natural annatto colorant, Plant-derived yellow-orange pigment, Bixin food dye, Norbixin food additive, Marigold-colored extract, Organic annatto powder, Non-synthetic yellow food color
APPLICATIONS
E160b Annatto is widely used in dairy products such as cheddar cheese, butter, margarine, and yogurt for its yellow-orange hue.
E160b Annatto is applied in bakery products, snacks, sauces, and processed meats as a natural coloring agent.
E160b Annatto is utilized in beverages and confectionery to achieve vibrant coloring with label-friendly natural origin.
E160b Annatto is used in cosmetics such as lipsticks and soaps for its natural pigment.
E160b Annatto is included in poultry feed to enhance the yellow pigmentation of egg yolks and chicken skin.
E160b Annatto is also employed in traditional medicine and textile dyeing due to its botanical origin and cultural use.
E160b Annatto is widely used in the food industry as a natural coloring agent, where it provides a yellow to orange hue to products like cheeses, butters, margarine, and snacks.
E160b Annatto is employed in the production of dairy products such as cheese and yogurt, where it helps achieve a consistent yellow or orange color that enhances product appeal.
E160b Annatto is used in the cosmetic industry for coloring products such as lotions, soaps, and shampoos, providing a natural yellow or orange tint.
E160b Annatto is applied in the production of beverages, particularly fruit juices and soft drinks, where it contributes to the appealing visual presentation of the drink with its bright color.
E160b Annatto is used in the manufacturing of confectionery products like candies and gum, where it provides a natural orange color that is visually attractive to consumers.
E160b Annatto is employed in the formulation of salad dressings and sauces, where it enhances the appearance with its natural yellow or orange color.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of baked goods, where it provides a consistent golden color to cakes, pastries, and cookies.
E160b Annatto is used in the production of snacks like chips and crackers, where it provides a natural golden-orange hue that appeals to consumers.
E160b Annatto is used in the preparation of processed meats, such as sausages and hot dogs, where it helps achieve a consistent and visually appealing color.
E160b Annatto is employed in the production of margarine, where it imparts a natural yellow color that mimics the appearance of butter.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of health supplements, where it helps color capsules, tablets, and soft gels while contributing to the overall nutritional value of the product.
E160b Annatto is applied in the preparation of popcorn, where it helps color the popped kernels for a visually appealing snack.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of energy drinks, where it enhances the visual appeal of the product with its bright orange-yellow hue.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of cooking oils and fat-based products, where it helps provide a natural golden color that attracts consumers.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of ice cream and frozen desserts, where it helps provide a rich yellow color without altering the flavor of the product.
E160b Annatto is used in the creation of flavored syrups, where it adds color to the syrup and enhances its visual appeal for use in beverages and desserts.
E160b Annatto is employed in the production of dried food products, where it imparts color to dried fruits, vegetables, and seasoning powders.
E160b Annatto is used in the production of dairy-based snacks, where it enhances the color and overall appearance of products like cheese sticks and cheese snacks.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of herbal teas and wellness drinks, where it imparts a yellow or orange color to the beverage while offering health benefits.
E160b Annatto is employed in the production of cosmetic packaging, where it provides an appealing color to containers, labels, and other product materials.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of skin care products, where it contributes to the product's color and enhances the overall appearance of the formulation.
E160b Annatto is applied in the production of natural food colorants, where it is often used in combination with other natural ingredients to provide a vibrant yellow or orange color.
E160b Annatto is used in the preparation of food coatings, such as those for fried foods, where it provides a natural and attractive golden appearance to the coating.
E160b Annatto is used in the production of savory snacks, such as pretzels and cheese-flavored snacks, where it enhances the visual appeal of the product.
E160b Annatto is employed in the formulation of sauces and condiments, where it contributes to the rich, golden color and visual appeal of the product.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of non-alcoholic beverages, such as smoothies and teas, where it enhances the product’s color while contributing to its natural ingredient profile.
E160b Annatto is used in the manufacture of specialty food items, such as gourmet sauces and dips, where it provides a vibrant color and enhances the product’s aesthetic.
E160b Annatto is used in the formulation of baking mixes, where it helps maintain a consistent golden-brown color in the baked product.
E160b Annatto is applied in the production of chocolate-based products, where it adds a golden tint to the product, complementing the rich brown color of chocolate.
DESCRIPTION
E160b Annatto appears as a reddish-orange powder, oil suspension, or water-dispersible solution depending on the formulation.
E160b Annatto is derived from the pericarp of Bixa orellana seeds and standardized based on bixin (oil-soluble) or norbixin (water-soluble) content.
The color profile ranges from yellow to orange-red depending on concentration and pH sensitivity.
E160b Annatto has a mild, neutral taste and is generally stable under standard food processing conditions.
E160b Annatto is compatible with both oil- and water-based systems when formulated accordingly.
Light, heat, and oxygen exposure can degrade color intensity; protection is recommended for storage.
E160b Annatto is composed of carotenoids, primarily bixin and norbixin, which give it its characteristic yellow to orange color and antioxidant properties.
E160b Annatto is widely used in the food industry to color a range of products, including cheese, butter, snacks, sauces, and beverages, enhancing their visual appeal without altering their flavor.
E160b Annatto is a versatile colorant that is often used in combination with other natural colorants, allowing for a variety of color shades to be achieved in food products.
E160b Annatto is used in personal care products, where it imparts a golden hue to items like soaps, lotions, and cosmetics, while also offering a natural source of color.
E160b Annatto is known for its stability in both high-temperature processes and during extended storage, making it ideal for use in products with long shelf lives.
E160b Annatto is an approved colorant in many countries and is considered safe for consumption and use in cosmetics when used within regulatory limits.
E160b Annatto is often preferred for its natural origin, making it a popular choice for manufacturers of organic and natural food products, cosmetics, and supplements.
E160b Annatto is a non-toxic, biodegradable colorant that is ideal for products seeking a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Formula: C24H30O4 (bixin), C24H26O4 (norbixin)
Molecular Weight: 394.49 g/mol (bixin), 378.46 g/mol (norbixin)
Common Name: Annatto
Appearance: Orange to reddish powder or viscous liquid
Odor: Mild, neutral
Solubility: Bixin is fat-soluble; Norbixin is water-soluble
Melting Point: ~200°C (bixin)
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to light, air, and alkaline pH
Storage Temperature: 10–25°C
Shelf Life: 12–24 months in sealed, light-protected containers
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
Move the person to fresh air.
Seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms persist.
Skin Contact:
Wash affected skin with soap and water.
If irritation or allergic reaction develops, consult a physician.
Eye Contact:
Rinse thoroughly with clean water for 15 minutes.
Seek medical attention if irritation continues.
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water.
If discomfort arises or large amounts are ingested, seek medical advice.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
Annatto is considered safe but may cause allergic responses in sensitive individuals.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Wear appropriate protective gloves, goggles, and clothing when handling in bulk.
Avoid inhalation of dust and prolonged contact with skin or eyes.
Ensure proper ventilation.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Sweep up spilled powder carefully to prevent dust dispersion.
Clean surfaces with water and mild detergent.
Dispose of according to local regulations for organic plant-derived materials.
Storage:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from light, moisture, and oxidizing agents.
Keep containers tightly sealed when not in use.
Handling Cautions:
Avoid high humidity and temperature extremes to maintain product stability and pigment quality.
Use clean, dry equipment to prevent contamination.
