Annatto (E 160b)

Last reviewed October 19, 2026

In plain words: Annatto (E 160b) is a yellow-to-orange color made from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana); its main coloring compounds are bixin and norbixin. It is used to color foods such as cheese, butter, snacks and cereals.

Also listed on labels as: Annatto, Annatto extract, Bixin, Norbixin, E160b, INS 160b(i), INS 160b(ii)

What do regulators say?

• EU: EFSA's 2019 opinion covers annatto colouring principles bixin and norbixin (E 160b) as a food additive (doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2019.5626, checked 2026-10-19).
• US: "Annatto extract" is a permanently listed color additive, exempt from certification, for foods generally (21 CFR 73.30; eCFR; FDA Color Additive Status List, checked 2026-10-19).

Published research: what individual studies found

These are findings from individual published studies and food-safety agency opinions, credited to each paper. Each one is labeled by type of evidence. They do not change any verdict, evidence grade or score on this site.

Evidence type: EFSA re-evaluation (2019)

• EFSA estimated that toddlers and children at the 95th percentile may exceed the norbixin ADI (0.3 mg/kg bw/day) in its 2017 scenario. In its 2019 update, EFSA estimated the ADI was only reached by toddlers at the 95th percentile in one country, and concluded the exposure 'does not raise a health concern.'
• About the ADI: An ADI is a safety benchmark with a built-in margin. An estimate above it is not a measured intake and doesn't mean harm has occurred.
• Source: EFSA FAF/ANS Panel, EFSA J, 2019 · doi:10.2903/j.efsa.2019.5626

For information only, not medical advice. Studies are cited to their authors' published papers; the researchers aren't affiliated with and don't endorse Let Me Scan That or any product. A study link doesn't mean an ingredient causes harm. Report an error

Related guides

• Food Dyes and Colors: A Calm Guide for Families
• Lutein (E 161b)

Sources

1. EFSA FAF Panel, Safety of annatto E and the exposure to bixin and norbixin (E 160b), EFSA J, 2019. Link
2. eCFR, 21 CFR 73.30 Annatto extract. Link
3. FDA, Color Additive Status List. Link

This page is for general education. It is not medical advice and does not replace advice from your doctor, pediatrician, allergist or registered dietitian. Research changes; we review these pages when new evidence or rules come out. Last reviewed October 19, 2026.