Capsicum oleoresin

Capsicum oleoresin (CAS 8023-77-6), also known as oleoresin capsicum and Capsicin, is a concentrated resinous extract derived from chili peppers standardized for capsaicinoid content. FEMA 2234.

Where is Capsicum oleoresin used?

• Food manufacturing: controlled pungency and red-orange pigmentation in hot sauces, marinades, processed meats and snack seasonings
• Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical: active component in topical analgesics, patches and capsules
• Agriculture: natural repellent active in crop protection sprays and animal deterrents
• Flavor houses incorporate it into standardized blends for heat profiling.

Good to know: It replaces variable dried chili inputs with a measurable heat unit specification.

Commercial specifications

• Heat strength typically expressed in Scoville Heat Units (SHU)
• Common commercial concentrations range from 0.5% to over 2% capsaicinoids