Annatto Dye Powder

Botanical Name: Bixa orellana

Common name: Achiote, Lipstick Tree

Colorant: Norbixin (water-soluble) and Bixin (fat–soluble)

Dye type: Substantive dye, or dye that can be used without use of mordants for less vibrant results, but benefits from mordants for more vibrant results.

Shade Range: From golden yellows to bright orange, both based on the fiber and the dye concentration. It can give a warm, brassy gold on protein fibers like wool, or softer peachy tones on plant based fibers like cotton.

Mordant Requirements: Annatto can be used without mordants, but depending on the fiber, alum is commonly added to intensify color on protein and plant fibers​.

Fastness: Washfastness and lightfastness for natural fibers can be moderate with the use of annatto; however, annatto can eventually fade when exposed to continued sun exposure.​​

Common Uses: Well known for the dyeing of textiles, food, and cosmetics. It has an iconic brown color which is commonly used for eco-friendly dyeing projects.

Country of Origin: Central and South America

Vegetarian product: Yes