Annatto is a natural food coloring agent that is extracted from the seeds of Bixa orellana, a tropical shrub. It is widely used in the food industry to impart a yellow to orange color to various food products, including cheese, butter, and margarine. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of annatto in different contexts.
Definitions
Annatto is defined as a natural food coloring agent that is derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is also known as E160b and is used to impart a yellow to orange color to various food products.
Origin
Annatto has been used for centuries by indigenous people in South America as a natural dye for textiles and body paint. The achiote tree, which is native to the tropical regions of the Americas, was cultivated by the Mayans and Aztecs for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. The use of annatto as a food coloring agent was introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, annatto is “a yellow to orange-red dye or food colorant obtained from the seeds of a tropical American tree.” Merriam-Webster defines annatto as “a yellowish-red dye or coloring made from the pulp around the seeds of a tropical American tree and used especially as a coloring for food.”
Associations
Annatto is commonly associated with the food industry, where it is used as a natural food coloring agent. It is also used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of annatto include achiote, roucou, and urucum.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms of annatto, as it is a specific substance.
The same root words
The word annatto is derived from the Nahuatl word achiotl, which means “red paint.”
Example Sentences
- The cheese had a bright orange color, thanks to the addition of annatto.
- The indigenous people of the Amazon have been using annatto as a natural dye for centuries.
- Annatto is a popular ingredient in Latin American cuisine, where it is used to color rice, stews, and sauces.