Ground Pepperoni

Ground pepperoni is a type of cured, seasoned sausage, typically made from a mixture of pork and beef. It is flavored with paprika or other chili pepper, giving it a characteristic spicy and smoky taste. The 'ground' form means it has been processed into small pieces.

Manufacturers add ground pepperoni primarily as a flavor ingredient to impart a savory, spicy, and meaty taste. It is most often found in prepared pasta and pizza sauces, as well as other savory dishes where a pepperoni flavor is desired.

Ground pepperoni is a food ingredient and not an additive requiring specific FDA approval. As a processed meat, it is often high in sodium and saturated fat; the FDA Daily Value for sodium is 2,300 mg, and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2025-2030) suggest limiting saturated fat to less than 10% of daily calories. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies processed meat, including pepperoni, as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1).