Ingredient

Including Red Chili Pepper

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Red chili pepper is primarily used to add heat and a distinct flavor to …

What it is

Red chili pepper is the dried, ground fruit of certain species of the Capsicum genus of plants. It is known for its spicy heat, which comes from compounds called capsaicinoids. The peppers are typically dried and then ground into a powder or flakes.

Why it's used

Red chili pepper is primarily used to add heat and a distinct flavor to foods. It is a common ingredient in spice blends, sauces, marinades, and rubs. You can find it in a wide variety of cuisines, especially Mexican, Indian, and Thai.

Health notes

Red chili pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. The capsaicinoids responsible for its heat have been studied for various health effects, though research is ongoing and sometimes mixed. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated capsaicin, but no specific numeric limits are set for its use as a food ingredient. At typical dietary levels, it is not associated with adverse health effects for most people.

Allergen info

Red chili pepper is not one of the nine major allergens identified by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.