Which Bell Pepper Packs the Most Vitamin C?

A new study published in the journal Alchemy has discovered that the colour of a bell pepper may say more about its nutritional value than most people realize. Researchers from Indonesia found that different colours of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) contain strikingly different amounts of vitamin C, a nutrient vital for immune function, collagen formation, and overall well-being (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Determination of Vitamin C in Various Colours of Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) by Titration Method

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Vitamin C Levels in Different Bell Pepper Colours

The study measured vitamin C content in bell peppers of four colours - green, yellow, orange, and red, using a titration method. The results showed clear differences across the maturity stages of the peppers:

• Green bell pepper: 16.52 mg of vitamin C per 100 g
• Red bell pepper: 81.19 mg of vitamin C per 100 g
• Orange bell pepper: 121.38 mg of vitamin C per 100 g
• Yellow bell pepper: 159.61 mg of vitamin C per 100 g

The yellow bell pepper emerged as the richest source of vitamin C, offering nearly ten times more than the green variety.

Why Bell Pepper Colour Matters

Bell peppers naturally change colour as they ripen, moving from green to yellow, orange, and finally red. This shift is not just visual; it signals important chemical changes inside the vegetable. Researchers explain that the pigment development during ripening alters the nutrient composition, including the concentration of vitamin C.

Interestingly, while many assume red peppers, being fully ripe, are the most nutritious, this study found the yellow ones hold the top spot. This difference could be due to variations in pigment synthesis, growing conditions, or the oxidation rate of vitamin C during ripening.

The Bigger Picture for Healthy Eating

The findings remind us that small dietary choices can make a big difference. For those looking to boost their immune system naturally, adding yellow or orange bell peppers to salads, stir-fries, or snacks can be a smart and colourful way to increase vitamin C intake. Beyond immunity, vitamin C also supports skin health, wound healing, and antioxidant protection.

The next time you’re in the grocery aisle, you will look at colored bell peppers differently.

Bright food choices can brighten your health. Pick your peppers wisely, and let nature work its magic on your plate.

Reference:

1. Determination of Vitamin C in Various Colours of Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) by Titration Method - (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/323397772_Determination_of_Vitamin_C_in_Various_Colours_of_Bell_Pepper_Capsicum_annuum_L_by_Titration_Method)

Source-Medindia