Ingredient

Fresh Jalapeno

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Jalapeños are primarily used to add a spicy, pungent flavor to foods. They are …

What it is

The fresh jalapeño is a medium-sized chili pepper, a cultivar of the species *Capsicum annuum*. Native to central Mexico, it is now grown worldwide. It is typically harvested when green and used fresh, though it can also be ripened to red.

Why it's used

Jalapeños are primarily used to add a spicy, pungent flavor to foods. They are a popular ingredient in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, commonly found in salsas, dips, nachos, stuffed peppers, and as a pizza topping.

Health notes

Fresh jalapeños are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. They are a source of vitamins, minerals, and capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat. Capsaicin has been studied for its potential effects on metabolism and pain, but research is ongoing. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but no specific health claims are made for typical dietary intake of jalapeños.

Allergen info

Jalapeños are not derived from any of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing Fresh Jalapeno

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.