Spices Including Red Pepper

Spices are a diverse group of plant-derived ingredients used to add flavor to food. They can be the dried seeds, fruits, roots, bark, or vegetative substances of plants, such as pepper, cinnamon, and turmeric. Spices are typically used in small amounts to enhance the taste and aroma of dishes.

Manufacturers add spices to foods to provide flavor and aroma. They are commonly found in savory products like processed meats, snacks, sauces, and frozen appetizers. Spices can also add a sense of heat or piquancy, as in the case of red pepper.

The FDA considers spices to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) when used for flavoring. While generally safe, some individuals may experience digestive upset from very spicy foods. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various spices for safety. Evidence on specific health effects of high spice consumption is mixed and often depends on the specific spice and individual sensitivity.