Description :

Annatto is an orange-red condiment and food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). It is often used to impart a yellow or orange color to foods, but sometimes also for its flavor and aroma. It is also used in cosmetics, as a fabric dye, body paint, sunscreen, insect repellent, and medicine. It is also a rich source of anti-oxidants.

Benefits :

• The health benefits associated with the consumption of these seeds include everything from promoting healthy digestion to protection against respiratory diseases.
• This red pigment which is a great food colouring agent and has numerous medicinal benefits is called annatto.
• Due to its strong pigmentation, it is widely used in cosmetics and as a natural food dye.
• Several lab tests have revealed that the high concentration of tocotrienols present in annatto is the key elements of its efficacy against diseases.
• Annatto is recognized as a powerful ant-aging herb due to the presence of tocotrienols in it.

Uses :

• Used as a spice in many types of food throughout the world.
• Ground annatto seeds, often mixed with other seeds or spices, are used in the form of paste or powder for culinary use.
• The seed and leaf are used to make medicine.
• In foods, annatto is used as a coloring agent.