I have been receiving email after email for several months now regarding the “Naga Viper” pepper that supposedly has broken the record for the hottest pepper. I have researched this extensively and have found no concrete evidence that this record has been broken. Sure, I have seen pictures of this pepper, or something called the Naga Viper but the testing from Warwick University in England is not conclusive. Sure, they tested something that rated the 1.3 million on the Scoville scale, but what was in this sample? It could have easily been laced with synthetic capsaicin (remember pepper spray tests at approximately 2 to 5 million SHU).

Further, they stated that they only tested a small sample and concluded that further testing was needed by another source to verify and confirm the results. AND, how did they test this small sample? The only recognized testing method that I know of is via HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography). Was it tested by this method? We have had our Bhut Jolokia peppers tested many, many times in New Mexico. We ALWAYS send them about 1/4 cup of each sample to be tested and this is because the lab requires this amount to verify results.

Warwick University stated that they only had a small sample for their testing. Did they test the “Naga Viper” more than once? I think IF a potential world record was set, that they would have tested again, or THAT THE OWNER OF THIS SAMPLE would have tested again to verify. I know that if I would have set the world record that I would have had Guinness there to verify and post this ASAP. With this being said, I have doubts that this chili pepper did test at this record breaking level. Not to ruffle any feathers in the UK, I just don’t buy this story.

For the statement released by Warwick University, click here.

Aloha and Mahalo,

Jamie
thehottestpepper.com

My name is Lloyd Snyder I would love to get more information on the hottest pepper in the world and where I can buy them. I live in PA. Also if I were to buy seeds can I grow them here in Pa.? Thank you.

Answer:

Hey Lloyd,

Thanks for your inquiry. There is a lot of information concerning the Bhut Jolokia on our website. Please check it out. You can certainly grow this pepper in PA but there is a little planning involved. After germinating your seeds, you will need to transplant your “Bhuts” to a 4″ or 6″ pot when about 4″ tall. Keep them inside near a window if the temperatures are not above 65 degrees. Then acclimate them to the outside after all danger of frost has passed. When the temperature gets above 90 during the summer, you will have to buy some shade cloth to keep the temps. between 80 and 90 degrees. This usually required about a 20-30% reducing shade cloth. Keep them deep watered (slowly–drip is the best) every two days when it is that hot. IF they start to drop their flowers, then they are probably too hot. You will need to double up on the shade cloth. Please contact me during this process if you have any questions or problems. Once again, there is a lot of this information on our site.

Aloha,

Jamie

Hey Jamie it’s Mike in Wash.DC. I just wanted to let you know my plant is doin great!

I took some pics. One quick question. I’m noticing the plant kinda takin a purple color in the stems. Is this normal? Or indication of a problem. The plant is about 2 feet tall and very full and bushy. Just curious. Takes a look a the pics! Doin my best to make ya proud of me with a successful grow!

Take care buddy,
Mike

Dear Mike
It looks perfect and should start flowering soon.  Keep me updated as it’s always good to see how other Bhut enthusiasts are doing with the seeds!

Mahalo,
Jamie

Big announcement, in case you guys didn’t get the hot memo, The Hottest Pepper is hosting a hot sauce and salsa contest.  Do you have a killer recipe that is not just hot but incredibly tasty? Then show us your Iron Chef skills by emailing pictures, and your recipe to enter.

One winner from each category, Hot Sauce and Salsa, will receive a $100 cash prize.