Extreme Heat 800,000+ SHU

Extreme hot peppers are cultivated and consumed almost exclusively by enthusiasts, competitive eaters, and specialty sauce makers. Ghost Pepper (Bhut Jolokia, 800,000–1,001,304 SHU), Trinidad Moruga Scorpion (up to 1,200,000 SHU), and the Carolina Reaper (up to 2,200,000 SHU) are recognized world record-holders for heat.

Their intensity can cause sweating, hiccups, and tears with even minimal exposure. Used sparingly, they flavor ultra-hot sauces, spice extracts, and novelty food products; in some cultures, dried pieces are added to pickles or chili oils. Extreme hot handling requires gloves, ventilation, and thorough hand-washing due to risk of burns.