Monterey Club Annatto Seed Powder 1lbs 454g

The dried and ground fruit of the tropical achiote tree has been used as a natural coloring agent since the 15th century. It is still used today to give color to various cosmetics, soaps, candles, cheese, margarine, baked goods and other foods.

a.
quick look

information at a glance

approximate cups to one pound	5
origin	india
active compounds	Carotenoid coloring is found in the seed pulp of the fruit.
plant part used	seed
processing	powder
why buy annatto seed powder?	Adds color and an earthy, nut-like flavor to foods.

b.
buying & keeping

general guidelines and tips

storage tips	Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
appearance & aroma	Orange in color, mild aroma.
good vs bad	In proper conditions angelica root can last up to 3 years. Discard if it becomes moldy or otherwise spotted.

c.
uses

try something new

cosmetic	The ground seed is used in blush powders. Powdered annatto seed is also used in soaps and lotions for added color.
culinary	Powdered annatto seed is made into achiote paste and then mixed with vinegar or oil for use as a marinade or rub for meats.
wellness	Annatto seed contains various antioxidants and carotenoids.
industrial	Used in the food industry to add color to cheese, butter, soft drinks and other processed foods.

f.
what else you should know

annatto seed powder

Annatto is widely used in Mexican, Latin and South American cuisines, where it is blended with other spices to flavor empanadas, red tamales, grilled and roasted meats, rice dishes and other foods. Sazón, a popular seasoning mix brand known to most Americans that literally translates to “seasoning” in Spanish, primarily consists of annatto powder, garlic powder, cilantro, cumin, coriander and salt.

Annatto seed was once used as ink for ancient Mexican scrolls. The seed is still used to produce a natural dye for cloth and body paint. Hindu women mark their foreheads with a cosmetic powder made from crushed annatto seed to show that they are married. Select men of the Tsáchila tribe of Ecuador dye the top portion of their hair on otherwise shaved heads with a paste made of crushed annatto seed. This practice began when a shaman was led by spirit to use the herb as whole body dye and antidote to smallpox. At the time, however, the Spanish referred to these men as Colorados, which means “red-colored,” because they thought that was the true skin color of the indigenous people.