What is E 160b(ii)?
E 160b(ii) is the E number of Annatto norbixin. Water-soluble form of annatto colour from the seeds of the annatto shrub. It is used in cheese, desserts and baked goods.
What is E 160b(ii) used for?
E 160b(ii) belongs to the group "Colours" and is used as colour.
- Colour: Colours add or restore colour in a food.
Which foods may contain E 160b(ii)?
According to the European Commission's database, E 160b(ii) may be used in 27 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:
- Dairy products and analogues
- Edible ices
- Fruit and vegetables
- Confectionery
- Cereals and cereal products
- Bakery wares
- Meat
- Fish and fisheries products
- Salts, spices, soups, sauces, salads and protein products
- Beverages
- Ready-to-eat savouries and snacks
- Desserts
Is E 160b(ii) vegan?
Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.
Is E 160b(ii) linked to genetic engineering?
No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.
How does E 160b(ii) appear on the label?
In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Colour: E 160b(ii)" or "Colour: Annatto norbixin".
Sources
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, consolidated version of 18.08.2026, Annexes I and II, EUR-Lex
- Food Additives Database, European Commission (accessed 19 October 2026)