Organic Dried Red Chili Pepper

Dried red chili pepper is the dried fruit of plants from the genus Capsicum. The peppers are harvested when mature and then dried, often through sun-drying or mechanical dehydration. This process concentrates their flavor and heat.

Dried red 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 foods like chili starters and pasta sauces. Its primary function is as a flavor enhancer.

Dried red chili pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. The active compound, capsaicin, is responsible for the 'heat' and has been studied for various physiological effects. While generally safe in typical food amounts, very high doses can cause digestive upset. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but specific ADIs are not typically set for whole food ingredients like chili peppers.