Herbs & Spices
Annatto Seed
91Health
Score
A+Score
Annatto (achiote) seeds are the brick-red seeds of Bixa orellana, prized for the carotenoid pigment bixin used as a natural food colorant.
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Why Annatto Seed scores 91
Nutrient density26
Protein quality10
Fiber content10
Healthy fats7
Bioactive compounds14
Glycemic impact10
Top nutrients
Manganese87Copper66.7Iron38.9Magnesium28.6Calcium26.9
Nutrition
per_100g
350
Calories
13g
Protein
68g
Carbs
5g
Fat
32g
Fiber
Health benefits
Provides antioxidant carotenoids
limited evidenceBixin and norbixin quench singlet oxygen and scavenge free radicals, protecting lipids from peroxidation
Supplies tocotrienol vitamin E
limited evidenceAnnatto is a rare concentrated source of delta- and gamma-tocotrienols, which support antioxidant defense and lipid metabolism
Pairs well with
- ·Steep in warm oil or fat because bixin is fat-soluble; the infused oil carries both color and antioxidants into the dish
- ·Pair with rice and beans as in traditional Latin American cooking where it colors and lightly flavors the staple base
Practical tips
- ·Best timing: anytime
- ·Infuse seeds in warm (not smoking) oil for a few minutes, then strain because whole seeds are hard and not eaten
- ·Store in an airtight container away from light to preserve the pigment
- ·A small amount delivers strong color; over-extraction turns dishes bitter
