What is a Scoville Heat Units (SHU) or Rating?
The Scoville rating or unit is considered a standard way of recording the heat (or piquancy) of each chili pepper. However, it is not scientifically accurate, but more a system of rating devised for the chili pepper enthusiast. The scale was created by Wilbur Scoville in 1912 and measures the capsaicin chemical compound available in each pepper. Pure capsaicin measures at 15,000,000-16,000,000 units with the hottest pepper (the Red Savina Habanera) at 350,000-580,000 units. The cayenne and Tabasco pepper are measured at 30,000-50,000 while the jalapeno pepper is at 2,500-2,800 units. Pimento and pepperoncini range from 100-500 SU.
