Chili & Salt

Chili and salt is a common seasoning blend made from dried, ground chili peppers and purified sodium chloride. Chili peppers are fruits from plants in the Capsicum family, while salt is a mineral typically obtained from mines or evaporated seawater. The two ingredients are combined to create a savory, often spicy, flavor.

Manufacturers add chili and salt primarily to enhance the flavor of foods, providing both spiciness from the chili and saltiness. Salt also acts as a mild preservative. This blend is commonly found in snack foods like chips, pretzels, nuts, and popcorn, as well as in various savory dishes.

Both chili peppers and salt are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as food ingredients. While chili peppers are generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort or irritation due to capsaicin, the compound that gives chili its heat. Salt (sodium chloride) is an essential nutrient, but high sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure in some people; the FDA Daily Value for sodium is 2,300 mg. JECFA has evaluated sodium chloride and established an acceptable daily intake. There are no specific health concerns unique to the combination of chili and salt beyond those of the individual ingredients.