[Tribal World] Colouring all from rituals to victuals
by Matthew
Entrancing annatto seeds await preparation, © Fiona Watson/Survival
Bixa orellana, or annatto to the English-speaking food industry, is a tree giving a wonderful and widespread dye. Its red seeds (pictured), once processed, are often used for the yellowing of cheese, smoothies, cereals and other food stuffs.
Being a plant native to South America among other places, it also brings colour to tribal peoples. This photograph was taken in Brazil where many tribes turn the seeds into body paint for rituals, celebrations and general beautification.
