Question

Pungency in chillies is due to the presence of

  1. Lycopine
  2. Capsaicin
  3. Carotene
  4. Anthocyanin

Answer:

Option B: Capsaicin

Detailed Solution:

The correct answer is “Capsaicin”.

The pungency in chillies is due to the presence of Capsaicin.

It binds to receptors in the mouth and skin, triggering a burning or stinging sensation. Capsaicin is found mainly in the seeds and membranes of chillies and is present in higher concentrations in hotter varieties..