Green And Red Jalapeno Peppers

Green and red jalapeño peppers are varieties of the chili pepper fruit from the plant *Capsicum annuum*. They are typically harvested when green for a milder flavor and firmer texture, or when red for a sweeter, spicier taste. They are commonly used fresh, pickled, or dried.

Jalapeño peppers are primarily used to add a spicy flavor and heat to foods. They are frequently found in Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes, as well as in snacks, sauces, salsas, and processed meats like sausages and hot dogs.

Jalapeño peppers are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. They contain capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat, which may have some health benefits at typical consumption levels, though research is ongoing. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated capsaicinoids. Evidence on the health effects of capsaicin is mixed and requires more research.