The slot of the hottest pepper is a competitive one as creators aim to be the force behind the hottest chillies in the world. Luckily, the Guinness Book of Records has documented these new record-breaking bit after bit. Similarly, here at the Frutplanet, we have been tracking these random changes.
At FrutPlanet, we help our clients order and deliver spices worldwide. We are a leading exporter with over 5 years experience. In this article, we aim to answer one constant question from our clients on which are the hottest chillies in the world.
In the 2023 Guinness Book of Records, the super hottest pepper is Pepper X, with over 2,693,000 Scoville units. Previously, the world’s hottest pepper title was held by the Carolina Reaper in 2013, which ousted Trinidad Scorpion Butch. Trinidad held the title since 2011.
If you want to export the hottest chillies to various destinations, contact us now. We have global access to markets in the US, China, Europe, and other global destinations. We can help you source and export chillies globally. All our peppers are organically farmed in line with GAP policies.
11 Hottest Chillies in the World
The title for the hottest chillies in the world keeps changing every day. But, as of 2024, these are the hottest chillies in the world.
No. 1: Pepper X ( 2,693,000 SHU)
As aforementioned, the list of the hottest chillies in the world is constantly changing, and the most recent creation is Pepper X. Pepper X ousted Carolina Pepper as the hottest pepper in the world on 23 August 2023.
Pepper X is a creation of Ed Currie, the same man who created Carolina Pepper. According to Ed Currie, Pepper X is a cultivar of Capsicum Chilli Pepper.
The Winthrop University in South Carolina, USA, conducted rigorous tests on the Pepper X and rated it at 2,693,000 Scoville Heat Units. The record places Pepper X ahead of Carolina Reaper, solidifying its status as the current hottest pepper in the world.
Pepper X will probably take centre stage amongst farmers to get access to the seeds. Also, culinary enthusiasts and chefs are also likely to make experimental dishes.
No.2: Carolina Reaper (1,600,000 – 2,200,000 SHU)
The Carolina Reaper is the world’s second-hottest chili, scoring 1,641,000 SHU in 2013. However, in 2018, experts did more tests only for Carolina Reaper to ouster itself as the World’s Hottest Pepper. The 2018 tests confirmed that the Carolina Reaper is 71000SHU hotter, pushing its record further to 2.2 million SHU.
Like its predecessor, Carolina Reaper is a creation of Ed Curie, a mastermind focused on revolutionising the world of hot peppers. Ed’s dedication has been challenging taste buds and captivating the imagination of spice enthusiasts.
During its reign as the hottest chilli that lasted from 2013 to 2023, it was daring to chefs and enthusiasts. If you’re looking to order Carolina pepper in bulk, contact us to order a quote now. We’ll offer you competitive prices and relieve you of the hassle of shipping logistics.
No.3: Trinidad Scorpion Butch T Pepper (1,463,700 -2,009,231 SHU)
Hailing from the Capsium Chinense cultivar, this scorpion-shaped pepper packs a punch. The Trinidad chilli earned its place as the world’s hottest chillie 2011 with a whooping Scoville scale of 1 million to 1,463,700 SHU.
Like its successors for the world title, the chilli is not indigenous but a hybrid created by Butch Taylor Marcel de Wit. Butch created the once world’s hottest chilli from the indigenous Trinidad Moruga Scorpion from the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
The Trinidad Scorpio Butch T ranked as the hottest chilli for three years after a lab test in March 2011. Despite it being pushed further down by new creations, the Trinidad Scorpion Butch T is still iconic in the world of spicy cuisines. FrutPlanet can help you order and deliver the Trinidad in bulk. Request a quote now for the best prices in this time of the year.
No.4: 7 Pot Douglah Pepper (923,889 – 1,853,936 SHU)
The 7 Pot Douglah emerges as a distinctive player with extensive Scoville Heat Units (SHU), ranging between 923,889 to slightly over 1.85 million. This score has rightfully made it an elite contender in the chilli world. The 7 Pot Douglah is also known as the Chocolate 7 Pot courtesy of the chocolate-coloured exterior.
Like many hot peppers, it is a cultivar of the Capsicum chinense species, carefully bred to enhance its heat and flavour characteristics. The Chocolate 7 Pot continues to captivate the palates of those who seek the perfect balance between heat and flavour in their culinary adventures.
No.5: Komodo Dragon Pepper (1,400,000 SHU -2,200,000 SHU )
Originating in the UK and created by Salvatore Genovese, Komodo Dragon pepper is one of the world’s hottest peppers. It’s named after the formidable Komodo dragon and delivers a fiery bite equally. It adds extra heat to any dish, especially with its delayed reaction.
The pepper’s flavour profile often carries a unique blend of fruity and citrusy notes, contributing heat and a distinctive taste to culinary creations. Its heat score is 1.4 – 2.2 SHU making it an essential component in hot sauces, salsas, or spicy marinades.
We deliver bulk orders for Komodo Dragon Pepper globally at competitive prices per kg. You can request a comprehensive price breakdown now by emailing or calling us now.
No.6: Naga Viper Pepper (1,382,118 SHU)
The Naga Viper has a blistering Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating of 1,349,000 and was recorded as the World’s Hottest Chilli in the Guinness World Records heat in 2011. The creator of this pepper equated the hottest to a viper bite hence its name. The Naga Viper pepper was however succeeded by the Trinidad Scorpion Butch T within the year and later, Carolina Reaper.
Gerald Fowler created the Nigar Viper in England, Cark, Cumbria by combining the fiery genes of the Naga Morich, Bhut Jolokia, and Trinidad Scorpion peppers. These two peppers were already some of the hottest peppers and by combining them, he wasn’t taking any chances.
No.7: 7 Pot Barrackpore Pepper (1000000 – 1,300,000 SHU)
Originally from Trinidad, the 7 Pot Barrackpore boasts a searing heat that sets it apart from 1 million to 1.3 million SHU. It’s a favourite among those who seek the ultimate chilli challenge. Apart from its heat, the chilli also has a distinct flavour profile.
The fruity and citrusy undertones add a layer of complexity that resonates with those who appreciate the marriage of intense spiciness and rich flavour. If you want to order this fresh pepper wholesale, request a quote from us now. We are a reliable fresh produce company and deliver fresh 7 pot Barrackpore globally.
No.8: Infinity Chili (1,067,286 – 1176182 SHU)
As its name suggests, the Infinity Chili has an endless capacity for heat. This hybrid of the Capsicum chinense was created in England by Nicholas Woods, a chilli breeder in Lincolnshire. The Infinity Chilli held the title of the world’s hottest chilli for a brief period in 2011. It was, however, displaced in March 2011 by Trinidad Scorpion Butch T Pepper.
No.9: Ghost Pepper (Bhut Jolokia) (1,041,427 SHU)
The Ghost Pepper, also known as Bhut Jolokia, was once the world’s hottest chilli in 2007. The chilli is a hybrid chili pepper of Capsicum chinense and Capsicum frutescens. The chilli is rated 170 times hotter than Tabasco sauce and is hotter than cayenne pepper.
No.10: Trinidad 7 Pot Pepper (1000000 – 1,200,000 SHU)
Another contender from Trinidad, the Trinidad 7 Pot, earns its name from legendary tales that it can add fiery heat to seven pots of stew. Despite its intense spiciness and hotness of about 1.2 million SHU, the Trinidad 7 pot is not commonly used. However, in the Caribbean, where it’s predominant, the chilli is used to flavour hot sauces, soups, and stews.
No.11: Dorset Naga Pepper (923000 – 1,201,000 SHU)
A relative of the Bhut Jolokia, the Dorset Naga hails from the United Kingdom and has a Scoville score of 923,000 units. It delivers blistering heat, making it a favourite among heat-seeking chilli aficionados. This chilli is a favourite among most UK chefs for preparing sauces, marinades, etc.
Uncertified Contenders
Below are more varieties alleged to be some of the hottest peppers in the world.
Dragon Breath Pepper
Dragon Breath is an unofficially tested chilli pepper cultivar that’s alleged to have 2.48 million Scoville units. This claim has, however, not been recognised by the Guinness World Records. The chilli’s creator is Neal Price, from the United Kingdom.
Where to Buy the hottest chillies in the world in Bulk
If you’re looking to buy the hottest chillies in the world in bulk, either on the above list or not, contact FrutPlanet now. Frutplanet delivers chillies globally at an affordable price per Kg. Email us at info@frutplanet.com for more details on how to order the different chilli varieties. You can also fill out our request for a quote form or message us on WhatsApp.
