Ingredient

Red Cayenne Pepper

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Ground cayenne pepper is primarily used as a spice to add heat and flavor …

What is Red Cayenne Pepper?

Red cayenne pepper is a type of chili pepper, specifically a cultivar of the species *Capsicum annuum*. It is known for its moderate heat and is typically dried and ground into a powder for use as a spice. It is grown in various regions worldwide, including the United States.

Is Red Cayenne Pepper vegan?

Red Cayenne Pepper is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Red Cayenne Pepper gluten-free?

It does not contain gluten.

Is Red Cayenne Pepper a major allergen?

Red cayenne pepper is not one of the nine FDA major allergens.

What is Red Cayenne Pepper used for?

Ground cayenne pepper is primarily used as a spice to add heat and flavor to foods.

Is Red Cayenne Pepper safe?

Red cayenne pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient.

Why it's used

Ground cayenne pepper is primarily used as a spice to add heat and flavor to foods. Manufacturers add it to a wide range of products, including sauces, marinades, processed meats, snacks, and spice blends. Its pungent taste makes it a popular ingredient in savory dishes.

Health notes

Red cayenne pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. It is a source of capsaicin, the compound responsible for its heat. While capsaicin has been studied for various potential health effects, such as pain relief and metabolism, research is ongoing and evidence is mixed. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated capsaicinoids, but no specific regulatory limits are set for cayenne pepper as a spice.

Allergen info

Red cayenne pepper is not one of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Red Cayenne Pepper

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

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.