Black Pepper
What is Black Pepper?
Black pepper is a spice made from the dried, unripe berries of the Piper nigrum plant. This flowering vine is native to southern India, and its berries are harvested, cooked briefly in hot water, and then dried, which causes them to wrinkle and turn black.
Is Black Pepper vegan?
Black Pepper is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Black Pepper a major allergen?
Not a major allergen.
What is Black Pepper used for?
Manufacturers add black pepper primarily for its distinctive pungent flavor and aroma.
Is Black Pepper safe?
Black pepper is a common food ingredient and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used in amounts typically found in food.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add black pepper primarily for its distinctive pungent flavor and aroma. It is one of the most widely used spices globally, found in a vast array of savory dishes, seasoning blends, sauces, and processed foods to enhance taste.
Health notes
Black pepper is a common food ingredient and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used in amounts typically found in food. There are no notable health concerns associated with its consumption at typical dietary levels. As a natural spice, it is not typically evaluated by bodies like JECFA or EFSA in the same way as food additives.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Black Pepper
Compare products →
Learn more
Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.