Is Annatto vegan?

Q: Is Annatto vegan?

Yes, Annatto is vegan. Annatto is a natural orange-red colourant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), native to tropical regions. It is used as a food colourant and in cosmetics, and contains bixin and norbixin as its main pigments. It is listed as E160b in the EU.

Annatto

Vegan

Annatto is a natural orange-red colourant derived from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), native to tropical regions. It is used as a food colourant and in cosmetics, and contains bixin and norbixin as its main pigments. It is listed as E160b in the EU.

Also known as	Achiote, Annatto extract, Bixa orellana seed extract, Bixin, Bixin/Norbixin, Norbixin, Roucou, Urucu
E number	E160b
CAS number	1393-63-1
Last reviewed	16 April 2026

Classifications are made to the best of our knowledge based on available scientific and regulatory sources. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of every entry, errors in the sources we draw from can always occur. This tool also cannot account for cross-contamination, which depends entirely on individual suppliers and producers. If you believe a classification is incorrect, you can report an issue.

Is Annatto vegan?

Annatto

Report an issue