Pepperoni

Pepperoni is a type of spicy salami, typically made from cured pork and beef. It is seasoned with paprika or other chili pepper, giving it a distinctive red colour and flavour. The meat is usually smoked and then air-dried.

Pepperoni is primarily used as a topping for pizzas, where its spicy, savoury flavour and slightly chewy texture are highly valued. It is also found in some sandwiches, pasta dishes, and as a snack. Manufacturers add it for its characteristic taste and aroma.

Pepperoni is not a food additive and does not have an E-number. It is a processed meat product. The UK's Eatwell Guide advises that people who eat a lot of red and processed meat should consider eating less, as processed meat consumption is linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies processed meat as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning there is sufficient evidence that it causes cancer in humans. However, this classification does not consider the quantity consumed. Typical consumption levels of pepperoni in the UK are not associated with significant health risks for the general population, but moderation is advised as part of a balanced diet.