Red pepper flakes

Red pepper flakes

Spice

Item Rating: 76/100

1 serving (1 grams) contains 5 calories, 0.2 grams of protein, 0.1 grams of fat, and 1.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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1250
calories
50
protein
250
carbohydrates
25
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (250g)
Calories
1250
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 25 g 32%
Saturated Fat 0 g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 125 mg 5%
Total Carbohydrates 250 g 90%
Dietary Fiber 125 g 446%
Sugars 25 g
protein 50 g 100%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 500 mg 38%
Iron 25 mg 138%
Potassium 2000 mg 42%

* 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
🥩 High protein

Source of Calories

70.2%
14.0%
15.8%
Fat: 225 cal (15.8%)
Protein: 200 cal (14.0%)
Carbs: 1000 cal (70.2%)

About Red pepper flakes

Red pepper flakes, also known as crushed red pepper, are made by drying and crushing a mix of chili peppers, typically cayenne, ancho, or jalapeno varieties. This fiery spice is commonly used in Italian, Mexican, and Asian cuisines to add heat and flavor to dishes. Nutritionally, red pepper flakes are low in calories and provide small amounts of vitamins A, C, and E, along with capsaicin, a bioactive compound responsible for their spiciness and potential health-promoting effects. They are also free of fat, cholesterol, and sodium when consumed in moderate quantities.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in capsaicin, red pepper flakes may support metabolism and promote fat oxidation, aiding in weight management.
  • Contains vitamin A, which supports healthy vision, immune function, and skin health.
  • Provides antioxidant properties from vitamin C and E, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, paleo, keto
Not suitable for: Low-spice diets, capsaicin-sensitive individuals

Selection and Storage

Store red pepper flakes in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain flavor and potency for up to 12 months.

Common Questions About Red pepper flakes Nutrition

Are red pepper flakes high in calories or any nutrients?

Red pepper flakes are very low in calories, with just 6 calories per teaspoon (2 grams). They provide minimal protein (about 0.3 grams per teaspoon), but they are rich in certain micronutrients, including vitamin A and vitamin C, as well as capsaicin, the compound responsible for their spiciness.

Can I use red pepper flakes on a keto or low-carb diet?

Yes, red pepper flakes are keto-friendly and low-carb as they contain less than 1 gram of carbohydrates per teaspoon. They can be a flavorful way to add spice without impacting your carb count.

What are the health benefits of red pepper flakes?

Red pepper flakes are known for their high capsaicin content, which may help boost metabolism, reduce inflammation, and support heart health. They are also a good source of antioxidants like vitamin A, which supports eye and skin health.

How much red pepper flakes should I use in a meal?

A common recommendation is 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes per serving for a moderate to strong level of heat. You can adjust based on your spice tolerance, but be cautious as too much can overwhelm the dish.

How do red pepper flakes compare to fresh chili peppers?

Red pepper flakes are made from dried and crushed chili peppers, which concentrate their flavors and heat. They are spicier and more potent than fresh peppers in the same quantity, but fresh peppers offer more water content and a slightly milder flavor due to dilution.

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.

  1. Vitamin C — Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
    NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
    Explains the benefits of vitamin C, a key nutrient found in red pepper flakes.
  2. Using Herbs and Spices to Enhance Dietary Intake
    Dietary Guidelines for Americans
    Discusses how spices like red pepper flakes can enhance flavor and nutrient intake while reducing sodium use.

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.