Annatto

What is annatto?

Annatto is an orange-red food coloring or spice obtained from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). The achiote tree grows in tropical regions in South and Central America. Annatto has several other names, such as achiote, achiotillo, bija, urucum or atsuete.

Annatto is mainly used as a natural food coloring as it imparts a bright color ranging from yellow to deep orange-red. Its color comes from compounds called carotenoids. These are pigments found in the outer layer of the seed and in many other fruits and vegetables such as carrots and tomatoes.

Annatto is also used as a spice to enhance the flavor of food because of its slightly sweet and peppery taste. Its aroma is best described as nutty, peppery and floral. It is available in various forms, for example as a powder, paste, liquid or essential oil.

What are the benefits of annatto?

Annatto has several potential health benefits, both for humans and dogs. Here are some of them:

• Antioxidant properties: Annatto contains numerous phytochemicals with antioxidant properties, including carotenoids, terpenoids, flavonoids and tocotrienols. Antioxidants are compounds that can neutralize potentially harmful molecules known as free radicals, which can damage your cells if their levels become too high. Research has found that damage caused by high levels of free radicals is linked to chronic diseases such as cancer, brain disorders, heart disease and diabetes. Antioxidants can therefore help to prevent or treat these diseases.
• Antimicrobial properties: Research suggests that annatto may have antimicrobial properties. In test tube studies, annatto extracts have been shown to inhibit the growth of various bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In another test tube study, annatto killed various fungi, including Aspergillus niger, Neurospora sitophila and Rhizopus stolonifer. These properties could help to prevent or fight infections.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Annatto may also have anti-inflammatory properties. In one animal study, annatto extracts were shown to reduce the production of inflammatory messengers such as nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2. In another animal study, annatto extracts were shown to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis. Inflammation is involved in many diseases and can cause pain and discomfort.
• Eye health: Annatto could also be good for the eyes. The carotenoids in annatto may help protect the retina from damage caused by blue light emitted from the sun or screens. They may also reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common eye disease that can lead to vision loss.
• Heart health: Annatto may also protect the heart. The tocotrienols in annatto may help to lower cholesterol levels, relax blood vessels and inhibit blood clotting. These effects can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack or stroke.

What are the disadvantages of Annatto?

Annatto is generally classified as safe and harmless, but side effects or allergic reactions may occur in rare cases. Here are some of them:

• Allergic reactions: Some people or dogs may have an allergic reaction to Annatto. Symptoms may include skin rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing or anaphylactic shock. If you or your dog notice these symptoms after eating annatto, you should consult a doctor or vet immediately.
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: Annatto can cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some people or dogs, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary, but if they persist or are severe, you should consult a doctor or vet.
• Drug interactions: Annatto can interact with some medications and strengthen or weaken their effect. This includes medication to thin the blood, lower blood sugar or blood pressure.