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Nutritional Density
Food guide

Black Pepper

The world's most traded spice; its piperine also aids nutrient absorption.

Plant-Based
Black Pepper, a nutrient-dense plant-based food, photographed on a plain linen surface

Nutrition per 100 g

Standardised to 100 g of black pepper for fair comparison. Typical serving: 1 tsp (2 g) — 6 kcal per 2 g serving.

Nutrition information for Black Pepper
NutrientPer 100 gPer serving (2 g)Per 100 kcal
Energy300 kcal6 kcal100 kcal
Protein10 g0.2 g3.3 g
Carbohydrate75 g1.5 g25 g
Fat5 g0.1 g1.7 g
Fibre30 g0.6 g10 g

Figures are typical values and vary with variety, preparation and brand.

Micronutrients

Vitamins and minerals per 100 g of black pepper, with a typical serving and FDA Daily Value for adults.

Micronutrients for Black Pepper
NutrientPer 100 gPer serving (2 g)% DV
Vitamins
Thiamin0.32 mg0.006 mg27%
Niacin8.3 mg0.17 mg52%
Vitamin B60.2 mg0.004 mg12%
Minerals
Calcium14.4 mg0.29 mg1%
Iron1.1 mg0.022 mg6%
Magnesium113 mg2.3 mg27%
Phosphorus307 mg6.1 mg25%
Potassium256 mg5.1 mg5%
Sodium0 mg0 mg0%
Zinc1.7 mg0.034 mg15%
Copper0.21 mg0.004 mg23%
Manganese3.9 mg0.078 mg170%

Source: USDA FoodData Central — Rice, black, unenriched, raw

% DV uses FDA Daily Values for adults. Nutrients that USDA does not report for this entry are omitted. Values vary with variety, preparation and brand.

Why eat black pepper?

  • Piperine markedly increases absorption of turmeric's curcumin.
  • Adds pungency without sodium.

How to include it

  • Grind fresh over finished dishes.
  • Always pair with turmeric.

Things to consider

  • Pre-ground pepper loses aroma quickly.
  • Can irritate reflux in large amounts.

Educational content. This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Speak to a qualified health professional about your individual circumstances.

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