Birds Eye Chilli
What is Birds Eye Chilli?
The bird's eye chilli (Capsicum frutescens) is a small, fiery chilli pepper native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its intense heat and distinctive flavour, often used fresh or dried in various cuisines.
Is Birds Eye Chilli vegan?
Birds Eye Chilli is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Birds Eye Chilli gluten-free?
It does not contain gluten.
Is Birds Eye Chilli a major allergen?
Bird's eye chilli is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Birds Eye Chilli used for?
Bird's eye chillies are primarily used to add heat and a pungent, fruity flavour to dishes.
Is Birds Eye Chilli safe?
Bird's eye chilli is a natural food ingredient, not a food additive, and is not subject to authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations.
Why it's used
Bird's eye chillies are primarily used to add heat and a pungent, fruity flavour to dishes. They are found in a wide range of food products, including sauces, marinades, spice blends, snacks, and ready meals, where they contribute to the overall taste profile and heat level.
Health notes
Bird's eye chilli is a natural food ingredient, not a food additive, and is not subject to authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for its heat, is being researched for various physiological effects, though robust evidence for significant health benefits or risks at typical dietary intakes is limited. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified capsaicin as 'not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans' (Group 3).
Allergen info
Bird's eye chilli is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. It does not contain gluten.
Foods that contain Birds Eye Chilli
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