Datil Peppers

Datil peppers are a small, fiery hot pepper, similar in heat to a habanero but with a distinct fruity, smoky flavor. They are believed to have originated in St. Augustine, Florida, brought by enslaved West Africans. The peppers are typically dried or used fresh to add heat and flavor.

Datil peppers are used as a flavoring agent to add heat and a unique fruity taste to foods. They are commonly found in hot sauces, salsas, marinades, barbecue sauces, and even some condiments like ketchup and mustard.

Datil peppers are a natural food ingredient and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food. Like other chili peppers, they contain capsaicin, which can cause a burning sensation and may cause digestive upset in some individuals. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but no specific evaluations for datil peppers themselves are widely published.