Black And Cayenne Pepper
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What it is
Black pepper (Piper nigrum) and cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum) are dried fruits and pods, respectively, from flowering vines. They are ground into powders to create distinct spicy flavors and aromas. Both are widely cultivated globally.
Why it's used
These peppers are primarily used to add heat and flavor to a wide variety of foods. Manufacturers include them in seasoning blends, rubs, marinades, sauces, and processed snacks. They can also be used as a natural preservative due to some of their compounds.
Health notes
Black and cayenne peppers are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a spice or flavoring. They are common food ingredients and not typically consumed in amounts that would cause adverse effects. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated capsaicinoids, the active compounds in cayenne, but did not set a numeric limit. Research suggests potential benefits from capsaicin, such as pain relief and metabolic effects, but evidence is mixed and more research is needed. High concentrations can cause irritation.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen. Neither black pepper nor cayenne pepper are derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. They do not contain gluten.