Annatto

Definition

Annatto is a red powder derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. This ingredient is popular in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine for its flavor and color, has been used medicinally, and is the source of annatto dye. See: Annatto extract.

Health considerations

Annatto has been used in alternative medicine to treat heartburn. There have been some reported cases of annatto allergy and of annatto triggering irritable bowel syndrome.

May be found in

Cheese, rice, butter, yogurt, custard powder, baked goods, seasonings, processed potatoes, snack foods, breakfast cereals, smoked fish, prepared dishes

References

Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
Annals of Allergy
Toxicological Aspects of Food Safety

Alternative Spellings and Names

Roucou, Achiote