Editorial Guidelines
How we research, write, and maintain the content on Know The Pepper.
Research Process
Every pepper profile, comparison, and guide begins with data collection from authoritative sources. We cross-reference SHU measurements from the USDA FoodData Central database, Chile Pepper Institute research, and peer-reviewed studies published in journals indexed by PubMed.
Fact-Checking
Before publication, content is verified against multiple sources. SHU ranges must match published research. Species classifications follow EPPO taxonomy. Historical claims require at least one primary source.
Update Cadence
We review existing content quarterly. When new research is published — such as a new Guinness World Record or updated USDA nutritional data — we update affected pages within one week.
What We Don't Do
- Cite Wikipedia as a source
- Use unverified SHU claims from seed sellers
- Publish growing advice we haven't tested
- Make health claims without citing peer-reviewed research
See our complete source list for the databases and journals we reference.