Pimento

Pimento, also known as pimiento, is a variety of chili pepper (Capsicum annuum) that is typically sweet and mild. It is native to the Americas and is often picked when red and fully ripe. The peppers are usually roasted, peeled, and then packed in brine or a light syrup.

Pimento is used to add a mild, sweet pepper flavor and a bright red color to foods. It is commonly found stuffed into olives, used in relishes, pâtés, and sauces, and as a flavoring in cheese spreads and dips.

Pimento is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It is a source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C and vitamin A. No specific health concerns are associated with the consumption of pimento at typical dietary levels. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated similar pepper-derived ingredients.