Hatch Chili Pepper Powder

Hatch chili pepper powder is made from dried and ground Hatch chili peppers, a variety of *Capsicum annuum* native to the Hatch Valley region of New Mexico. These peppers are known for their distinctive sweet, mild to medium heat flavor profile. The drying and grinding process concentrates their flavor and makes them easy to use as a spice.

Manufacturers use Hatch chili pepper powder primarily as a flavoring agent to add a unique, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy taste to foods. It is commonly found in snacks like chips and pretzels, as well as in processed meats such as sausages and hot dogs, and in salad dressings and mayonnaise where it contributes a savory depth.

Hatch chili pepper powder is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chili peppers, has been studied for various potential health effects, though research is ongoing and sometimes mixed. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but no specific numeric limits are typically relevant for typical dietary intake of chili powder. Consumption at typical levels is not associated with adverse health effects for most people.