Cayenne

Cayenne

Snack

Item Rating: 72/100

1 serving (5 grams) contains 17 calories, 0.6 grams of protein, 0.9 grams of fat, and 3.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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809.5
calories
28.6
protein
142.9
carbohydrates
42.9
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (238.1g)
Calories
809.5
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 42.9 g 55%
Saturated Fat 9.5 g 47%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 142.9 mg 6%
Total Carbohydrates 142.9 g 51%
Dietary Fiber 66.7 g 238%
Sugars 23.8 g
protein 28.6 g 57%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 381.0 mg 29%
Iron 19.0 mg 105%
Potassium 5095.2 mg 108%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt

Source of Calories

53.3%
10.7%
36.0%
Fat: 386 cal (36.0%)
Protein: 114 cal (10.7%)
Carbs: 571 cal (53.3%)

About Cayenne

Cayenne is a type of chili pepper originating from Central and South America, where it has been used both as a spice and as a traditional medicine for centuries. It is notably a staple in Mexican, Indian, and East Asian cuisines. Nutritionally, cayenne offers a low-calorie profile while being dense in fiber, vitamin C, and capsaicin—a compound responsible for its heat and many of its health benefits. It also contains moderate amounts of calcium and iron, making it a nutrient-rich addition to various dishes.

Health Benefits

  • Boosts metabolism due to the presence of capsaicin, which has thermogenic properties that may aid in calorie burning.
  • Supports immune function with vitamin C content (84 mg per 100 g, approximately 93% of the daily recommended intake).
  • Promotes digestive health through its high fiber content (28 g per 100 g), which aids in bowel regularity.
  • Enhances bone health with a moderate calcium content (160 mg per 100 g, about 16% of the daily recommendation).
  • Contributes to improved blood health due to its iron content (8 mg per 100 g, about 44% of daily needs).

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, paleo, low-carb
Not suitable for: Low-spice tolerance diets

Selection and Storage

Store whole or dried cayenne peppers in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Keep fresh cayenne in the refrigerator, ideally in a paper bag, for up to a week.

Common Questions About Cayenne Nutrition

Is cayenne high in protein?

Cayenne contains 12 grams of protein per 100 grams, which is moderate compared to other protein-rich foods. It is not a primary protein source but can contribute to overall daily intake.

Can I eat cayenne on a keto diet?

Yes, cayenne can be consumed on a keto diet in small amounts, as it is primarily used as a spice and has minimal impact on overall carb intake. However, at 60 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, larger quantities may not be suitable for strict keto adherence.

What are the health benefits of cayenne?

Cayenne is rich in capsaicin, which may help reduce inflammation, support metabolism, and aid in pain relief. It is also high in fiber (28 grams per 100 grams), which supports digestive health, but excessive consumption may cause irritation for some people.

How much cayenne should I use in cooking?

Cayenne is potent and should be used sparingly in recipes. Typically, half a teaspoon to one teaspoon is enough to add flavor and spice to dishes without overwhelming the palate.

How does cayenne compare to paprika in cooking?

Cayenne is significantly hotter and spicier than paprika due to its higher capsaicin content. While paprika is mild and more suited for adding color, cayenne is ideal for adding heat and flavor to recipes. Adjust quantities based on desired spice levels.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.