Annatto
Natural seed color; rare sensitivity reactions.
- Category
- Colours
- Vegan
- Yes
- Vegetarian
- Yes
What it is
A natural pigment used to add vibrant color to foods and beverages.
How it is used in food
Provides beautiful reds, oranges, and purples to foods without the health concerns associated with synthetic artificial dyes.
Commonly found in- Fruit juices
- Dairy desserts
- Snacks
- Confectionery
Health and safety
Considered very safe. These are naturally occurring pigments found in everyday fruits and vegetables.
Evaluated by EFSA and confirmed safe for use in food at authorized levels.
Regulatory status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Australia & New Zealand FSANZ |
Permitted | Permitted under the FSANZ Food Standards Code. |
| European Union EFSA / European Commission |
Not approved | Not on the EU authorised list of food additives (Annex II). |
| United States FDA (Food and Drug Administration) |
Permitted | Authorised for food use by the FDA (often GRAS for standard additives). |
Identification on labels
- E-number
- E160b
- Colour index
- CI 75120
Worth knowing
Anthocyanins (E163) change color depending on acidity: they are red in acidic liquids (like lemonade) and turn blue or purple in alkaline foods.
Conclusion
You should only mind annatto if you have a known history of rare sensitivity reactions to natural seed colourings. Evaluated as safe by EFSA at authorised levels, this natural pigment brings vibrant colour to dairy desserts, juices, and snacks without broader health concerns. For most shoppers, it is a very limited concern in everyday food.
References
- EFSA evaluation of E160b — EFSA
Is it in what you are buying?
ScanWise reads the barcode and tells you which additives a product actually contains, and what they do to its score.
Open the appEntry last reviewed 2026-07-28.
← All additives