Annatto, also known as achiote is an orange-red food coloring or condiment made from the seeds that grow inside the spiny fruits of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), which grows in tropical regions in South and Central America.
When ground into annatto powder, Annatto’s primary use through history has been as a coloring agent for makeup, textiles, or to color foods.

Additionally, annatto is used as a condiment to enhance the flavor of dishes due to its slightly sweet and peppery taste. Its aroma is best described as nutty, peppery, and floral.

• It has several other names, including achiote, achiotillo, bija, urucum, and atsuete.
• Its color comes from compounds called carotenoids, which are pigments that are found in the seed’s outer layer and many other fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and tomatoes.
• Many cheeses use annatto to achieve an orange or red color such as Mimolette, Red Leicester, and Cheddar.