Bixin
CAS Number
6983-79-5
EC Number
230-248-7
E Number
E160b(i)
What is Bixin?
Bixin (CAS 6983-79-5) is the primary pigment extracted from annatto seeds, the oil-soluble carotenoid fraction classified under E160b in food additive regulations.
Where is Bixin used?
- Food manufacturing: coloring dairy products
- Cheese, butter and margarine: warm tones
- Processed snacks, seasonings and bakery coatings: oil-dispersible color
- Personal care: lip products, foundations and skin-toning cosmetics
- Industrial food coatings and fat-based confectionery fillings: uniform appearance
- It withstands heat during production.
Good to know: Annatto oleoresin concentrates containing the active colorant are also commercially available for direct use in fat-based applications.
Commercial specifications
- Purity grades standardized by pigment content
Other Names (Synonyms)
methyl (9-cis)-hydrogen-6,6'-diapo-psi,psi-carotenedioate|6'-methyl hydrogen 9'-Z-6,6'-diapocarotene-6,6'-dioate|6'-methyl hydrogen 9'-cis-6,6'-diapocarotene-6,6'-dioate|9L7T4VB66G|Annatto (E 160b)|E160b|6,6′-Diapo-ψ,ψ-carotenedioic acid, 6-methyl ester, 9-cis-
What are the physical properties of Bixin?
Melting Point 198 °C
Boiling Point 438.7°C (rough estimate)
Density 1.0659 (rough estimate)
Color Dark Red to Very Dark Red
Form Solid
Refractive Index 1.4460 (estimate)
Log P 8.23
How is Bixin classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS06· Toxic GHS07· Irritant
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Bixin?
HS Code 38200000
WGK (Germany) 3