Ingredient

Cayenne Chili Pepper

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Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Cayenne pepper is primarily used as a spice to add heat and flavor to …

What it is

Cayenne chili pepper is a dried, ground fruit of a cultivar of the species *Capsicum annuum*. It is a variety of chili pepper known for its moderate heat and vibrant red color. The peppers are typically dried and then ground into a powder or flakes.

Why it's used

Cayenne pepper is primarily used as a spice to add heat and flavor to foods. It is commonly found in spice blends, marinades, sauces, and rubs. Manufacturers use it in a wide variety of savory dishes, including snacks, frozen meals, and deli items, to provide a spicy kick.

Health notes

Cayenne pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. The main active compound, capsaicin, is responsible for its heat and has been studied for various potential health effects. Some research suggests capsaicin may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but evidence is mixed and more research is needed. JECFA has evaluated capsaicinoids, but did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified).

Allergen info

Cayenne pepper is not one of the nine major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Cayenne Chili Pepper

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HOME CHEF Grilled Sweet And Sour Chicken With Roasted Sesame Green Beans Kits, Grilled Sweet And Sour Chicken Other Deli High in sodium — 40% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 42% DV per serving 107kcal 9.6Protein 3.8Fat 8Carbs Publix Super Markets, Inc. Nashville-Style Hot Chicken Salad With Greens And Roasted Corn Aprons Meal Kits, Nashville-Style Hot Chicken With Greens And Roasted Corn Other Deli High in sodium — 31% DV per serving High in added sugars — 20% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 40% DV per serving 127kcal 8.9Protein 5.6Fat 10.7Carbs FishPeople, Inc Fishpeople, Coconut Red Curry Seafood Bisque With Pink Shrimp & Albacore Tuna Other Soups High in sodium — 21% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 60% DV per serving 117kcal 5.3Protein 6.7Fat 7.4Carbs Glencourt Inc. Homestyle Pinto Beans Canned & Bottled Beans 100kcal 5.8Protein 0.4Fat 18.3Carbs Us-Nippon Meat Packers Beijing Inspired Broccoli Beef Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 23% DV per serving 121kcal 5Protein 5.7Fat 13.6Carbs Amplify Snack Brands, Inc. Black Magic Spicy Kettle Cooked Potato Chips, Black Magic Chips, Pretzels & Snacks 536kcal 7.1Protein 28.6Fat 57.1Carbs Amplify Snack Brands, Inc. Black Magic Spicy Kettle Cooked Potato Chips, Black Magic Spicy Chips, Pretzels & Snacks 529kcal 5.9Protein 29.4Fat 58.8Carbs Next Phase Enterprises Medium Sweet & Spicy Salsa, Medium Sweet & Spicy Dips & Salsa 36kcal 0Protein 0Fat 7.1Carbs Next Phase Enterprises Mild Sweet & Spicy Salsa, Mild Sweet & Spicy Dips & Salsa 36kcal 0Protein 0Fat 7.1Carbs FreshRealm LLC Butter Chicken With Turmeric Rice Global-Style Meal, Butter Chicken Other Deli High in sodium — 47% DV per serving 129kcal 7.1Protein 2.9Fat 19.1Carbs

Safeway, Inc. Pitted Snack Green Olives With Olive Oil, Chili Pepper & Thyme, Green Olives With Olive Oil, Chili Pepper & Thyme Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 167kcal 0Protein 20Fat 0Carbs

Badia Spices Inc. Hot Chili Sauce With Garlic Sriracha, Hot Ketchup, Mustard, BBQ & Cheese Sauce 0kcal 20Protein 0Fat 0Carbs

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.