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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Pepper is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a wide variety of savory …
What it is
Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is a flowering vine in the family Piperaceae, native to the Indian subcontinent. Its fruit, the peppercorn, is dried and used as a spice. It is one of the most widely traded spices in the world.
Why it's used
Pepper is primarily used as a flavoring agent in a wide variety of savory and some sweet dishes. It adds a pungent, slightly spicy taste. It is commonly found in processed meats, spice blends, sauces, and marinades.
Health notes
Pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It contains piperine, which may affect nutrient absorption. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated pepper and its extracts. Evidence does not suggest adverse health effects from typical dietary intake.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.