E160b
Annatto/Bixin/Norbixin (C.I. 75120)
Doubtful
Usage: Colouring
Yellow to peach colouring naturally found in the pericarp (seed coat) of the Annato tree. May be extracted by means of water-soluble or oil-soluble methods
Is Annatto / Bixin (E160b) Halal?
E160b (Annatto / Bixin) is listed as doubtful by MUIS — its source can vary, so verify before consuming.
Why is E160b doubtful?
Annatto is a yellow-orange pigment from the seed coat of the achiote tree, so the colour itself is plant-based. It is sold as oil-soluble (bixin) or water-soluble (norbixin) extracts made with oils, alkalis or solvents that vary by manufacturer, which is why MUIS lists E160b as doubtful. Halal-certified annatto is widely available.
About Annatto / Bixin
Annatto is a yellow-to-peach colouring obtained from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). It contains two main pigments, water-soluble norbixin and oil-soluble bixin.
Commonly Found In
- cheddar cheese
- butter
- margarine
- smoked fish
- snack foods
- rice dishes
Source & Origin
Plant-basedColouringVeganVegetarian
How to check on the label
- Look for a recognised halal certification logo (MUIS, JAKIM, MUI, HMC or similar) on the packaging — certified products have had the source of this additive verified.
- Check whether the label states the origin, for example 'vegetable origin', 'plant-based' or 'soy'.
- If there is no certification and the origin is not stated, contact the manufacturer or choose a product with a halal alternative.
Frequently asked questions
Is Annatto / Bixin (E160b) halal or haram?
E160b (Annatto/Bixin/Norbixin (C.I. 75120)) is doubtful for Muslims according to the MUIS food additive listing. Annatto is a yellow-to-peach colouring obtained from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana).
What is E160b?
Annatto is a yellow-to-peach colouring obtained from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). It contains two main pigments, water-soluble norbixin and oil-soluble bixin.
Where is E160b commonly found?
E160b is commonly found in cheddar cheese, butter, margarine, smoked fish, snack foods, and rice dishes.
Related colours
Halal status source: MUIS Food Additive Listing ·
Information on this page is for general reference only. Halal-status data is sourced from MUIS. For current regulatory status, allergen warnings, or dietary advice, please consult your local food safety authority or a qualified professional.