Pink Peppercorns

Pink peppercorns are the dried berries of the *Schinus molle* (Peruvian pepper) or *Schinus terebinthifolius* (Brazilian pepper) trees. Despite their name, they are not true peppercorns related to black pepper. They have a mild, slightly sweet, and fruity flavor with a delicate peppery bite.

Pink peppercorns are used as a spice to add a unique flavor and visual appeal to dishes. They are often found in spice blends, rubs, marinades, and as a garnish for salads, seafood, and desserts. Their mild flavor makes them suitable for a wide range of culinary applications.

Pink peppercorns are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. They are not typically consumed in large quantities, and at usual dietary levels, they are not associated with adverse health effects. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated various pepper species, but specific evaluations for pink peppercorns may vary. Research into their potential health benefits, such as antioxidant properties, is ongoing.