Annatto Dosage Calculator
Calculated Dosage
Cheesemaker’s Reference Guide
Storage
Annatto extract is light-sensitive. Always store in an amber-colored glass bottle in a cool, dark place to maintain potency. Exposure to UV light will cause the color to degrade over time.
Timing
Add annatto to the milk at the same time as, or slightly before, adding the starter culture. Stir thoroughly to ensure even dispersion. Failure to stir well may result in "streaking" in the curd.
Dispersion
For large batches, dilute the calculated amount of annatto in a small amount of cool, non-chlorinated water before adding to the milk vat. This helps achieve a uniform color profile across the entire batch.
Consistency
Dosage requirements can vary significantly between brands. Perform a "test batch" with a new bottle to calibrate your concentration settings for your specific desired hue.