Why are cheetos orange?

Cheetos are orange primarily due to the use of artificial coloring, specifically the food dye known as Yellow 6 and annatto, which is derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. These colors give Cheetos their distinctive bright orange hue. Additionally, the color helps make the snack visually appealing and recognizable to consumers. The combination of cornmeal, cheese, and these colorings contributes to the overall flavor and branding of the product.