Jalapeno

The jalapeno is a medium-sized chili pepper, a cultivar of the species *Capsicum annuum*. Native to central and southern Mexico, it is a popular pepper used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Jalapenos are typically picked when green but can be left to ripen to red.

Jalapenos are primarily used to add a spicy, pungent flavor to foods. They are commonly found in salsas, hot sauces, dips, and marinades. They can also be stuffed and baked or pickled for use as a condiment.

Jalapenos are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA as a food ingredient. The capsaicinoids, like capsaicin, are responsible for their heat and have been studied for various health effects. JECFA has evaluated capsaicin, and EFSA has evaluated capsaicinoids. While some research suggests potential benefits, such as aiding metabolism, high consumption can cause digestive upset in sensitive individuals. Evidence on long-term health effects is still being gathered.