Ingredient

Red Hot Chili Pepper

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

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use red hot chili pepper to add heat and a distinct flavor to …

What it is

Red hot chili pepper is a type of chili pepper known for its spicy heat. It is the fruit of plants from the genus Capsicum, native to the Americas. The heat comes from compounds called capsaicinoids, primarily capsaicin.

Why it's used

Manufacturers use red hot chili pepper to add heat and a distinct flavor to foods. It is commonly found in snack foods like chips and pretzels, as well as in sauces, marinades, and spice blends.

Health notes

Red hot chili pepper is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. The capsaicinoids responsible for its heat have been studied for various physiological effects, including pain relief and metabolism. However, high consumption can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals. JECFA has evaluated capsaicin and did not set a numeric limit (ADI not specified).

Allergen info

Red hot chili pepper is not one of the nine major allergens. It is not a source of gluten.

Products containing Red Hot Chili Pepper

Compare products →

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.