Black Pepper White Pepper

Black pepper and white pepper are derived from the dried berries of the *Piper nigrum* plant. Black pepper is made from unripe berries that are cooked and dried, while white pepper comes from ripe berries that have had their outer skin removed before drying. Both are used as spices to add flavor to food.

These peppers are primarily used to add a pungent, spicy flavor to a wide variety of foods. They are common seasonings in savory dishes, including frozen dinners, entrees, and prepared sandwiches. Manufacturers use them to enhance the taste profile of products.

Black and white pepper are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring agent. They are not typically consumed in amounts that would raise health concerns. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated spices, but specific numeric limits for pepper are not usually set due to its common use as a flavoring. Evidence does not suggest significant health risks from typical dietary intake.