A bixin is an apocarotenoid which is the active ingredient of annatto - a compound formed by the removal of fragments of the carbon backbone of a carotenoid.
Anato powder is derived from the seeds of the Annatto tree, which contains the natural pigment bixin. Bixin is a carotenoid compound that gives the powder its red-orange color, commonly used as a natural food coloring agent.
The lipstick tree, known scientifically as Bixa orellana, primarily has its seeds eaten by various species of birds and insects. These animals are attracted to the bright red seeds, which contain the natural dye bixin. Additionally, some mammals may also consume parts of the tree. However, the primary consumers are typically birds and insects that play a role in the tree's seed dispersal.
Annatto in the Philippines is called atsuete (Achuete, Achwete, Echuete), which is commonly used as food coloring in traditional dishes.Annatto water can be made by placing annatto seeds in water and crushing them until the water becomes red.As an additional info, this recipe may be helpful in making annatto water: see related links.