Black pepper
What is Black pepper?
Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is a flowering vine in the family Piperaceae. The fruit of the vine, known as a peppercorn, is dried and then ground to produce the familiar spice. It is native to South Asia and Southeast Asia.
Is Black pepper vegan?
Black pepper is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Black pepper a major allergen?
Black pepper is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels.
What is Black pepper used for?
Black pepper is primarily used as a spice to add flavour and pungency to a wide variety of savoury and sweet dishes.
Is Black pepper safe?
Black pepper is not an authorised food additive in the UK and does not have an E-number.
Why it's used
Black pepper is primarily used as a spice to add flavour and pungency to a wide variety of savoury and sweet dishes. It can be used whole, cracked, or ground, and is a common ingredient in marinades, rubs, sauces, and as a table seasoning.
Health notes
Black pepper is not an authorised food additive in the UK and does not have an E-number. It is considered a flavouring substance. Piperine, a compound found in black pepper, is responsible for its pungent taste and has been studied for its potential effects on nutrient absorption and metabolism. Research into these effects is ongoing, and while some studies suggest benefits, evidence is mixed and more peer-reviewed research is needed. EFSA has evaluated piperine as a flavouring substance.
Allergen info
Black pepper is not one of the 14 major allergens that UK law requires to be emphasised on food labels. Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Black pepper
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