Dried Jalapeno Peppers

Dried jalapeño peppers are the mature, dried fruits of the jalapeño pepper plant (Capsicum annuum). They are typically dried by sun-drying or using dehydrators. Drying concentrates their flavor and heat.

Dried jalapeños are used to add a spicy, smoky flavor to foods. They are often ground into a powder or flakes for use in spice blends, rubs, sauces, and marinades. They can be found in snack foods, soups, and savory dishes.

Dried jalapeño peppers are considered a food ingredient and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food. They contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat, which may have some antioxidant properties. JECFA has evaluated capsaicinoids, including those found in chili peppers, and established an acceptable daily intake. Evidence on the health effects of capsaicin at typical dietary intakes is mixed, with some studies suggesting potential benefits for metabolism and pain relief, while others note potential for gastrointestinal irritation in sensitive individuals.