Fresh Peppers

Fresh peppers are the edible fruits of plants from the genus *Capsicum*. They come in many varieties, ranging from sweet bell peppers to fiery hot chili peppers. They are typically harvested when ripe and can be used fresh, dried, or processed.

Fresh peppers are primarily used to add flavor, heat, and color to foods. They are a key ingredient in many cuisines worldwide. Manufacturers use them in a wide variety of products, including salsas, sauces, pickles, relishes, and spice blends.

Fresh peppers are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. They are a source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and antioxidants like capsaicin. While generally safe, consuming very large amounts of hot peppers can cause digestive upset in some individuals. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated peppers and their components.