Zimbabwe, Annatto Fruits

Annatto, or Bixa annatto (Bíxa orellána) is a shrub or small tree native to tropical America, but now growing in tropical areas of all continents.

The plant became known for the red pigment contained in its seeds and widely used as a food coloring, an alternative to similar synthetic products. The dye is obtained by extracting it from the seeds and is used in powder or paste form.