Cracked Red Pepper

Cracked red pepper is made from dried, mature red chili peppers that have been broken into pieces. The specific type of pepper can vary, but common varieties include cayenne, jalapeño, and paprika peppers. The drying and cracking process concentrates the pepper's flavor and heat.

Manufacturers add cracked red pepper primarily for its spicy flavor and visual appeal. It is used to add heat and a flecked appearance to a wide range of savory foods. Common applications include seasoning mixes, sauces, marinades, frozen meals, and baked goods like crackers.

Cracked red pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a spice. It is a source of capsaicin, the compound responsible for chili pepper heat, which has been studied for various physiological effects. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but no specific numeric limits are typically set for spices used in typical amounts. Evidence regarding health benefits or risks is mixed and often relates to high-dose supplements rather than culinary use.