Sichuan pepper

Sichuan pepper is the dried berry of a prickly ash tree native to China. The outer husk is removed to reveal a small, black seed, which is discarded. The husk is then dried and ground, or used whole, to impart its distinctive flavour.

Sichuan pepper is primarily used to add a unique, tingly, citrus-like flavour to dishes. It is a key ingredient in many Chinese cuisines, particularly Sichuanese, and is often found in spice blends, marinades, sauces, and savoury snacks.

Sichuan pepper is not considered a food additive and is used for its flavouring properties. There is no specific regulatory status for Sichuan pepper as a food additive in the UK. While generally consumed in small quantities as part of a balanced diet, some traditional medicine practices use it for various purposes, though scientific evidence for these claims is limited. Research into its specific health effects at typical consumption levels is ongoing.