onoto

Onoto is the common name for the plant Bixa orellana, a tropical shrub or small tree whose seeds yield a natural reddish-orange pigment widely used as a colorant and cosmetic dye. The pigment, derived from the seeds, has a long history of culinary and decorative use in various cultures. In English, the pigment is often referred to as annatto, and in some regions the plant or its seeds are called onoto or achiote.

The key coloring compounds in onoto are carotenoids, primarily bixin and norbixin. These compounds produce a range of colors from yellow to deep orange-red and are soluble in fats and oils, making onoto especially suitable for coloring dairy products and oil-based foods. The pigment also serves as a spice in certain cuisines, contributing both color and a mild, peppery flavor.

Uses and applications of onoto are widespread. In food, it colors cheeses, butter, margarine, rice, soups, and snacks, and is often used in dairy and baked goods to impart a characteristic golden hue. In cosmetics, onoto pigments have been employed in lipsticks, creams, and other products as a natural colorant. Historically, it has also been used in textiles and body decoration in some cultures.

Cultivation and production involve growing Bixa orellana in warm, tropical climates. The plant produces seed capsules that, when mature, are harvested, dried, and processed to extract or powder the pigment. In regulatory contexts, annatto is listed as a food coloring (E160b) in many jurisdictions and is generally considered safe when used in typical culinary amounts.