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Nutrition Differences in Colored Peppers

peppersBell peppers can add a variety of color to many recipes. But they also add different amounts of nutrition. Red, yellow and orange peppers are the ripe versions of the green pepper. Therefore, they cost more. They are all equal in the macronutrients of protein, fat, and carbohydrate.

The differences are found in the vitamin, mineral and phytonutrient content. In the case of vitamin C, green peppers contain 80mg per 3 ounce serving. Yellow peppers have 184mg per serving. The Recommended Daily Allowance is 75-90mg per day so either pepper is a good choice.

Different colors of peppers have different amounts of carotenoids. Red peppers are bursting with beta-carotene. Yellow peppers have very little beta-carotene. Orange peppers have 10 times the amount of lutein and zeaxanthin. Carotenoids are beneficial for eye health.

Bottom line, don’t skimp on peppers and add color to your meals!

Source: Tufts Health & Nutrition Letter, Jan. 2016

 

About Karen Blakeslee

The Rapid Response Center was formed in 1995 as a resource for Kansas State University Research & Extension Agents. Resource topics included Food Science, Human Nutrition, Food Service, Textiles, Home Care and other consumer topics. Since that time, the Center has grown to be of valuable assistance to Kansas State University Extension Specialists in those areas.

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