Physicochemical characterization of annatto seeds (Bixa orellana) sold in Ouagadougou and their oils extracted using chemical processes

Annatto (Bixa orellana) is a dye plant with multiple uses. In Burkina Faso, there is significant and growing consumption of these seeds in many sectors, especially in popular restaurants. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the physicochemical and nutritional characteristics of annatto seeds and their oils sold in Burkina Faso. Annatto seeds were collected from markets in the city of Ouagadougou and analyzed with standard methods. The results showed that the water content of the seeds varied from 8.84±1.6%/DM to 11.15±0.05%/DM, the ash content varied from 5.32±0.10%/DM to 7.71±0.10%/DM, the pH of the seeds ranged from 6.83±0.15 to 7.23±0.06, the protein content ranged from 7.21±0.11%/DM to 8.57±0.60%/DM, the lipid content ranged from 1.19±0.15%/DM to 2.62±0.36%/DM, the dietary fiber content ranged from 33.36±0.09%/DM to 41.65±0.24%/DM. The energy value ranged from 328.40±4.60 to 380.44±1.96 Kcal/100g. They were rich in various minerals, with high calcium and magnesium values. The vitamin C content of the seeds was approximately 0.2mg/100g and their beta-carotene content ranged from 0.40 to 1.99 mg/100g. As for the oil extracted from the seeds, the results showed that the unsaponifiable content ranged from 5.793±0.00% to 20.349±0.00%, the acid index varied from 0.280±0.00% (mg KOH/g) to 3.625±0.99% (mg KOH/g), and the refractive index varied from 1.495±0.00 to 1.509±0.00. The annatto seeds sold in Burkina Faso that were analyzed have good physicochemical properties, making them suitable for use in food, cosmetic, or pharmaceutical applications.