Bell pepper

Bell peppers are the mild-flavoured, fleshy fruits of the Capsicum annuum plant, native to Mexico, Central and South America. They are grown worldwide and harvested when ripe, coming in various colours including green, red, yellow, and orange, each with a slightly different flavour profile.

Bell peppers are used in packaged foods primarily for their flavour, colour, and texture, adding a fresh, slightly sweet taste and visual appeal. They are commonly found in ready meals, sauces, soups, salads, and savoury snacks.

Bell peppers are a fruit and not a food additive, so they do not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. They are a good source of vitamin C and other antioxidants. The NHS Eatwell Guide recommends including a variety of fruits and vegetables in the diet. There are no known significant health concerns associated with the consumption of bell peppers at typical dietary levels.