Ingredient

Pepperoni Ingredients: Pork

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Source
Animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Pepperoni is primarily used as a flavoring ingredient in a wide variety of foods. …

What it is

Pepperoni is a type of salami, a cured sausage made from pork and beef, seasoned with paprika and other spices. It is typically air-dried or smoked. The curing process helps preserve the meat and develop its characteristic flavor and texture.

Why it's used

Pepperoni is primarily used as a flavoring ingredient in a wide variety of foods. It is most famously used as a pizza topping but also appears in sandwiches, pasta dishes, and as a snack item. Its spicy, savory flavor adds depth to many recipes.

Health notes

Pepperoni is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is a source of protein and some B vitamins. However, like many processed meats, it is high in sodium and saturated fat. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified processed meats as carcinogenic to humans, based on sufficient evidence that consumption causes colorectal cancer. Consuming processed meats in moderation is recommended by dietary guidelines.

Allergen info

Pepperoni is not a major allergen. It does not contain gluten unless added during processing.

Products containing Pepperoni Ingredients: Pork

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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.