As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer about the ingredients in chili chews. Let's dive into it!
1. Cayenne: Cayenne is a type of chili pepper known for its spicy flavor. It adds a fiery kick to the chili chews, giving them a bold and intense taste.
2. Chili peppers: Chili peppers are a key ingredient in chili chews as they provide the main source of heat and flavor. The specific type of chili peppers used may vary, but they are generally chosen for their spiciness and unique taste profiles.
3. Salt: Salt is a common ingredient in many food products, including chili chews. It helps enhance the overall flavor and acts as a natural preservative.
4. Dehydrated lime juice: Lime juice adds a tangy and zesty note to the chili chews. The dehydrated form is used to concentrate the flavor and ensure a longer shelf life.
5. Water: Water is essential for the production process of chili chews. It helps to create the desired consistency and texture of the chews.
6. Citric acid: Citric acid is often used as a flavor enhancer and preservative in food products. In chili chews, it contributes to the tangy and sour taste, complementing the spiciness of the chili peppers.
7. Modified starch: Modified starch is a thickening agent commonly used in food processing. It helps to give the chili chews a chewy and consistent texture.
8. Acetic acid: Acetic acid, also known as vinegar, adds a slight acidity to the chili chews. It helps balance the flavors and acts as a natural preservative.
9. Xanthan gum: Xanthan gum is a thickener and stabilizer that is often used in food products to improve texture and prevent separation. In chili chews, it helps to create a smooth and chewy consistency.
10. Flavoring extracts: Flavoring extracts, which can be derived from various sources, are used to enhance the taste of the chili chews. These extracts may include natural or artificial flavors to provide a well-rounded flavor profile.
11. Potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate (as preservatives): These preservatives are commonly used in food products to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and molds. They help to extend the shelf life of the chili chews and maintain their freshness.
12. FD&C Red No.: FD&C Red No. refers to a specific food coloring used to give the chili chews a vibrant red color. It is a synthetic dye that is approved for use in food products.
Chili chews contain a combination of cayenne, chili peppers, salt, dehydrated lime juice, water, citric acid, modified starch, acetic acid, xanthan gum, flavoring extracts, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, and FD&C Red No. These ingredients work together to create a spicy, tangy, and chewy treat that is sure to satisfy chili lovers.