Annatto is an orange-red food coloring or condiment made from the seeds of the achiote (Bixa Orellana), which grows in the tropics of South and Central America.

It has several other names, including achiote, achiotillo, bija, urucum, and atsuete.

It is most commonly used as a natural food coloring because it imparts a bright color ranging from yellow to dark orange red, similar to saffron and turmeric.

Its color comes from compounds called carotenoids, which are pigments found in the outer layer of the seed and in many other fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and tomatoes.