And Ground Red Pepper

Ground red pepper is made from dried, ground pods of certain varieties of the Capsicum annuum plant. It is a spice used to add heat and flavor to foods. The level of heat can vary widely depending on the specific pepper variety used.

Ground red pepper is primarily used as a spice to add flavor and heat to a wide variety of foods. Manufacturers add it to savory dishes like sauces, marinades, frozen meals, and snack foods to enhance their taste profile. It is also used in spice blends.

Ground red pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a spice. It is a source of capsaicin, the compound responsible for its heat, which may have some antioxidant properties. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated spices, but specific evaluations for ground red pepper are not typically highlighted. While generally safe, excessive consumption can cause digestive upset in some individuals.