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E160b (Annatto) – Food Colouring Explained

E160b (Annatto) is a natural food colouring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It gives foods a yellow to orange hue and is considered largely safe for consumption.

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Things worth knowing about "E160b"

E160b (Annatto) is a natural food colouring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It gives foods a yellow to orange hue and is considered largely safe for consumption.

What is E160b (Annatto)?

E160b is the EU designation for the natural food colouring Annatto, extracted from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). It imparts a characteristic yellow to orange-red colour to foods and is widely used in the food industry worldwide. The two main active compounds are bixin (fat-soluble) and norbixin (water-soluble), both belonging to the carotenoid family.

Origin and Production

Annatto originates from Central and South America, where Bixa orellana has been used for centuries as body paint, a spice, and a traditional remedy. The dye is extracted from the red pigment surrounding the seeds. Depending on the desired solubility, bixin (for fatty products) or norbixin (for water-based products) is isolated during processing.

Use in Food Products

E160b is used in a wide range of food products, including:

Cheese (e.g., Cheddar, Red Leicester)
Butter and margarine
Ice cream and desserts
Baked goods and snacks
Breakfast cereals
Ready meals and soups

In the European Union, E160b is approved under Food Additives Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008. Maximum permitted levels apply to specific food categories.

Safety and Health Assessment

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated E160b and classified it as safe when used within the established maximum levels. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) has been set at 0–6 mg/kg body weight (expressed as bixin).

Possible Intolerances

Although Annatto is a natural colouring, allergic reactions have been reported in isolated cases. Symptoms may include skin rash, urticaria (hives), or gastrointestinal complaints. Individuals with a known Annatto intolerance should avoid products containing E160b. There are also some reports suggesting that Annatto may trigger migraines in susceptible individuals, though the scientific evidence for this remains limited.

Comparison with Synthetic Dyes

Unlike synthetic azo dyes such as E102 (tartrazine), E160b is not subject to the EU hyperactivity warning label requirement for children. It is generally considered better tolerated than many synthetic alternatives.

Labelling

On food ingredient labels, E160b must be listed as E160b, Annatto, Bixin, or Norbixin. Consumers with sensitivities are advised to check ingredient lists carefully before purchasing.

References

European Food Safety Authority (EFSA): Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of annatto bixin (E 160b) as a food additive. EFSA Journal, 2020.
European Commission: Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives.
Downham, A. & Collins, P.: Colouring our foods in the last and next millennium. International Journal of Food Science & Technology, 2000.

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