Ingredient

Capsicum Extract

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use capsicum extract to add a spicy flavor and a red to orange …

What it is

Capsicum extract is a natural coloring and flavoring agent derived from the fruit of pepper plants, such as chili peppers. The active compounds, capsaicinoids, are extracted using solvents like ethanol or carbon dioxide, and then purified. The resulting product can range from a red-orange liquid to a crystalline powder.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use capsicum extract to add a spicy flavor and a red to orange color to foods. It is commonly found in snacks like popcorn and peanuts, dips and salsas, and cooking oils. It can also be used in processed meats, sauces, and confectionery.

Health notes

Capsicum extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a flavoring and coloring agent. The capsaicinoids it contains are responsible for the heat in peppers and can interact with pain receptors. While generally safe in amounts used in food, high concentrations can cause irritation. JECFA has evaluated capsaicinoids and established acceptable daily intake levels. EFSA has also evaluated capsicum extracts.

Allergen info

Capsicum extract is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Capsicum Extract

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SALPICA Habanero Lime Salsa With Red Onion Dips & Salsa 33kcal 0Protein 0Fat 6.7Carbs CHORIZO Rice Cakes Other Snacks 405kcal 7Protein 6.1Fat 78Carbs CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY Campbell's Soup Tomato Prepared Soups High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 53kcal 1.2Protein 1.2Fat 9.0Carbs CAMPBELL SOUP COMPANY Campbell's Soup Tomato Prepared Soups High in sodium — 21% DV per serving 53kcal 1.2Protein 1.2Fat 9.0Carbs Hardwood Smoked Turkey Sausage, Hardwood Smoked Louis Rich, Inc. Hardwood Smoked Turkey Sausage, Hardwood Smoked Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats 196kcal 14.3Protein 12.5Fat 5.4Carbs Loaded Nacho Fries With Chorizo Zesty Seasoned French Fries Smothered In A Chunky Queso Sauce With Jalapenos, Red Peppers And Topped With Juicy Chunks Of Chorizo Sausage And Cheddar Cheese, Loaded Nacho Fries With Chorizo Kraft Heinz Foods Company Loaded Nacho Fries With Chorizo Zesty Seasoned French Fries Smothered In A Chunky Queso Sauce With Jalapenos, Red Peppers And Topped With Juicy Chunks Of Chorizo Sausage And Cheddar Cheese, Loaded Nacho Fries With Chorizo Frozen Appetizers & Hors D'oeuvres High in sodium — 56% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 55% DV per serving 180kcal 5.3Protein 11.6Fat 13.4Carbs Goody Snack Corp. Belvoir Fruit Farms, Ginger Cordial Fruit & Vegetable Juice, Nectars & Fruit Drinks 18kcal 0Protein 0Fat 4.4Carbs Annie Chun's, Inc. Roasted Seaweed Crisps Snacks, Gochujang Other Snacks 444kcal 5.6Protein 11.1Fat 77.8Carbs Sam Mills USA LLC Sam Mills, Tortilla Chips, Chili, Chili Chips, Pretzels & Snacks 464kcal 7.1Protein 12.5Fat 78.6Carbs Four Blue Palms LLC Moscow Mule Honey Ginger Syrup, Moscow Mule Alcohol 0kcal 0Protein 0Fat 36.7Carbs Glencourt Inc. Salsa Roja, Hot Dips & Salsa 36kcal 0Protein 1.8Fat 3.6Carbs Glencourt Inc. Salsa Roja, Medium Dips & Salsa 36kcal 0Protein 1.8Fat 3.6Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.