Today we will learn about two colorant obtained from natural source

• Annatto -Bixin

• Crocus-Saffron

Description is as follows

Annatto

Synonyms: Arnotta, Annotta, Lipstic Pods

Biological Source : This consists of dried seeds of the plant Bixa orellana L.

Family- Bixaceae.

Geographical sources : Jamaica, peru, Mexico, Brazil, India

Macroscopic characters :

• Colour- Brick red seeds

• Odour- Slightly sweet and peppery

• Taste – Hotness scale 1 to 2

• Size – 3 to 5 mm

• Shape- Triangular

Cultivation and collection:

• For plantation annato is sown from seeds or cutting

• It required loamy soil for systemic cultivation

• Near about 1000 m altitude required

• Plant having a height of 2 to 6 m

• Plant Bear pointed leaves and pinkish white flowers

• Plant bear heart shaped prickly pods

• Plant Pod is containing about 50 seeds

Preparation for the market :

• Dried fully matured pods are collected

• Fruits are macerated with water.

• The dye is settled a bottom dried and made into cake