Dried Red Chilli

Dried red chili peppers are the dried fruits of plants from the genus Capsicum. They are harvested when ripe, then dried through sun-drying or mechanical methods to reduce moisture content. This process concentrates their flavor and heat.

Dried red chilies are primarily used to add heat and flavor to foods. They are a staple in many cuisines worldwide, including Mexican, Indian, Thai, and Chinese. Manufacturers use them in spice blends, sauces, marinades, and processed snacks.

Dried red chili peppers contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat. The FDA considers chili peppers and their extracts to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use as flavoring. While generally safe, consuming large amounts can cause digestive upset in some individuals. International bodies like EFSA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but no specific numeric limits are set for general consumption.