Red Cayenne Pepper Flakes

Red cayenne pepper flakes are dried and crushed pieces of the cayenne pepper, a medium-hot chili pepper from the species *Capsicum annuum*. They are typically made by harvesting ripe cayenne peppers, drying them, and then crushing or flaking them.

Cayenne pepper flakes are primarily used to add heat and a mild, slightly bitter flavor to foods. They are commonly found in savory dishes like pasta sauces, chili, stews, and seasoned meats, as well as in some spice blends and marinades.

Red cayenne pepper flakes are considered a spice and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. The capsaicin in cayenne peppers is responsible for their heat and has been studied for potential effects on metabolism and pain relief, though evidence is mixed and more research is needed. JECFA has evaluated capsaicinoids, but did not set a numerical limit. There are no major regulatory controversies surrounding their use as a food ingredient.