Including Chili Pepper

Chili pepper is the fruit of plants from the genus Capsicum. It is a member of the nightshade family, native to the Americas. Dried chili peppers are often ground into a powder or flakes for use as a spice.

Chili pepper is used to add heat and flavor to a wide variety of foods. It is a common ingredient in spice blends, sauces, marinades, and processed snacks like chips and pretzels.

Chili pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. Capsaicin, the compound that gives chili peppers their heat, may have some health effects, though research is ongoing and evidence is mixed. Some studies suggest potential benefits for metabolism and pain relief, while others note potential for digestive upset in sensitive individuals. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated capsaicin and related compounds.