1. Introduction to Annatto Seeds
Table of Contents
Annatto (Bixa orellana), famously known as Điều Màu or Hạt Cà Ri in Vietnam, is a tropical seed harvested from the heart of the achiote tree. Often called “The Poor Man’s Saffron,” these seeds are world-renowned for their ability to impart a brilliant golden-yellow to deep orange-red hue to food without the need for synthetic dyes.
At Vinahugo, we supply high-quality Annatto seeds that are sun-dried to perfection. Our seeds are rich in natural pigments and essential oils, making them an indispensable ingredient in both traditional Asian kitchens and the modern global food industry.
2. Product Varieties
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Whole Annatto Seeds: Dried, unground seeds featuring a waxy, pigment-rich outer coating. Best for infusing oils or broths.
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Annatto Powder: Finely milled seeds used as a direct seasoning and coloring agent for marinades and spice blends.
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Annatto Oil: A pre-infused aromatic oil, ready for use in industrial food production or commercial catering.
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Annatto Paste: A concentrated blend of ground seeds and spices, popular in Latin American and Southeast Asian cuisines.
3. Technical Specifications
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Product Name: Annatto Seeds / Achiote Seeds
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Scientific Name: Bixa orellana
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Appearance: Small, triangular, or heart-shaped seeds with a reddish-brown to brick-red waxy coat.
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Flavor Profile: Slightly nutty, earthy, and peppery with a mild floral aroma similar to nutmeg.
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Bixin Content: (High-grade natural pigment).
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Moisture Content:
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Purity: 100% Natural, No artificial colors, Non-GMO, No chemical additives.
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Shelf Life: 18 – 24 months (stored in a cool, dark place).
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Certification: ISO, HACCP, FDA, HALAL, Phytosanitary Certificate.
4. Key Features & Health Benefits (SEO Optimized)
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Natural Food Colorant: A safe, plant-based alternative to synthetic dyes like E102 or E110, providing a rich “E160b” pigment.
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Potent Antioxidants: Rich in Tocotrienols (a rare form of Vitamin E) and carotenoids that help protect cells from oxidative damage.
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Antimicrobial Properties: Traditionally used to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in food, acting as a natural preservative.
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Digestive Health: High fiber content in the seeds supports healthy bowel movements and reduces stomach distress.
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Bone & Eye Health: Contains minerals like Calcium and Folate, along with carotenoids that support long-term vision.
5. Versatile Applications
5.1 Culinary & Home Cooking
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Infused Oils: Sautéed in oil to create the signature “red oil” for dishes like Bún Bò Huế, Cà Ri, and grilled meats.
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Natural Dye for Rice: Used to give a golden glow to Spanish rice, Filipino Java Rice, and various Asian sticky rice dishes.
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Marinades: Essential for imparting color and a subtle earthy flavor to roasted pork, chicken, and seafood.
5.2 Industrial Food Production
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Dairy Products: The primary natural colorant for high-end cheeses (Cheddar, Mimolette), butter, and margarines.
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Snack Foods: Used in the coating of chips, popcorn, and processed sausages to enhance visual appeal.
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Cosmetics: Utilized as a natural pigment in lipsticks, soaps, and body paints.
6. Packaging & OEM Services
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Bulk Packaging: 25kg – 50kg PP/PE bags or sturdy woven sacks for wholesale.
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Retail Packaging: 100g, 200g, 500g Stand-up pouches or PET jars with Custom Private Label (OEM) options.
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Standardization: Available in bixin-standardized forms for industrial buyers requiring consistent color intensity.
7. Export Policy & Logistics
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MOQ: 500kg (LCL) | 20ft/40ft Containers for large-scale distribution.
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Lead Time: 7 – 14 business days.
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Shipping: Worldwide shipping via Sea and Air freight with moisture-controlled containers.
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Documentation: COA, CO (Certificate of Origin), Phytosanitary Certificate, Bill of Lading.
8. Why Choose Vinahugo?
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High Pigment Density: We source seeds from regions with optimal sunlight to ensure maximum bixin levels.
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No Adulteration: 100% pure seeds without the addition of sand, stones, or exhausted seeds (seeds with pigment already extracted).
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Chemical-Free Drying: Naturally sun-dried to preserve the delicate tocotrienols and essential oils.
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Global Trust: A reliable partner for spice importers and food manufacturers across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
9. Contact Information
VINAHUGO CO., LTD 📞 Phone: +84 909 735 434 (WeChat – WhatsApp) 📧 Email: info@vinahugo.com | vinahugo.info@gmail.com 🌐 Website: vinahugo.com 💬 WhatsApp: Click to chat directly











