A natural orange-red dye extracted from the seeds of the annatto plant, native to tropical America. It colours everything from cheese rinds and processed cheese to ice cream, jams, and snack foods. The norbixin form is oil-insoluble, making it ideal for surface coatings and water-based products. Generally considered safe by EFSA and FDA, though it has a notable asterisk — annatto is one of the more common natural colorants linked to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including hives and digestive issues. Not a concern for most people, but worth knowing if you have unexplained food sensitivities.
This additive is authorised to be used in the following 26 food categories:
Want to know if a product you eat contains E 160b(ii)? Open FoodScan in Telegram, photograph any food product label and get your analysis.
Open in Telegram →