Black Pepper And Salt
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What it is
Black pepper is a spice made from the dried, unripe berries of the *Piper nigrum* plant. Salt is a mineral composed primarily of sodium chloride, typically harvested from evaporated seawater or mined from underground deposits.
Why it's used
Both black pepper and salt are widely used as seasonings and flavor enhancers in a vast array of foods. Salt also functions as a preservative, extending the shelf life of many products. They are commonly found in savory dishes, snacks, and processed foods to improve taste.
Health notes
Black pepper is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA as a spice and flavoring. Salt (sodium chloride) is also GRAS by the FDA and is an essential nutrient for human health. However, high sodium intake is a public health concern, with the FDA Daily Value set at 2,300 mg, as excessive consumption can contribute to high blood pressure. Both JECFA and EFSA have evaluated salt, and JECFA has evaluated black pepper, finding them safe for consumption at typical levels.
Allergen info
Neither black pepper nor salt is considered a major allergen by the FDA.