Annatto

Description

A reddish-yellow pulp enclosing the seed of the Arnotto tree.

Used as a colouring agent for butter and as a textile dyestuff. Liable to severe deterioration through wetting. Fresh and salt water affect the seeds adversely. Depending on the degree of contact, seeds will lose their red appearance, becoming blackish. Seeds which are so damaged should be separated as soon as possible from sound seeds and both sound and damaged well dried. Seeds not too badly damaged may be disposed of in the form of powder in order to fetch a better price.

If stowed in a hot place the seeds may suffer some loss in weight, but they do not deteriorate. Over-heating results in the outer covering being easily pulverside. Has a strong odour and is liable to give taint, therefore should be stowed away from foodstuffs.