The orange colouring matter from annatto seeds, regulated in Annex IV.
What it is
CI 75120 is annatto, the colouring matter obtained from the seeds of the achiote tree, Bixa orellana. Its main colour compounds are the carotenoids bixin and norbixin, and it is also used as a food colour under the number E 160b. CosIng lists it as a colorant. In the EU it is listed in Annex IV (colorants).
Where it is used
Found in lip products, soaps and other coloured products.
Limits of interpretation
The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.
See the EU regulation section for the applicable conditions, including purity criteria. As a natural material, its colour strength can vary between batches.
Functions
- Colorant
- Exclusively or mainly intended to colour the cosmetic product, the body as a whole or certain parts thereof, by absorption or reflection of visible light; (precursors of oxidative hair colorants shall be deemed colorants). All authorised colorants are substances in the positive list of Annex IV to the Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
EU regulation
- Conditions and warnings
- Purity criteria as set out in Commission Directive 95/45/EC (E 160b)
- As of
- 3 November 2026 · (EC) 2009/1223