Achiote, bija, annatto, is a natural colorant produced from the seeds of a bush (Bixa orellana) which is of quick growth and it is cultivated in hot and humid zones. There is not exact data of the origins of this plant, which registers uses by Indians of Bolivia, Peru and different zones in the Caribbean.

In Ecuador the production of this spice has not been very strong. It has been limited mainly to satisfy the local consumption and to satisfy the existing demand of our neighboring north, Colombia. It has existed a marked lack of marketing of our government which has not permitted to increment the plantations and as a consequence raise the exporting-offer. There has been a marked lack of impulse to promote it and to supply the demand of many countries (consumers) with a product of excellent quality.

The main colorant constituent of the annatto is the bixina which is found in the exterior cover of the seed of the fruit. It represents about the 80% of the present pigments. At present, this colorant is of great commercial interest due to its use it is exempt of certifications and it can be apply in the food industry as well as cosmetics and pharmaceutical. The bixina present in the Ecuadorian Annatto is minimum of 3%