Find out why jalapenos turn red, and if red jalapenos are hotter.

Did you know those bright green jalapeno peppers at the grocery store are not completely ripe?

Likebell peppers, jalapenos develop more color as they ripen, turning from green to red as they mature.

Harvested red and green jalapenos

Credit:Barbara Rich/ Getty Images

Some jalapeno varieties may ripen into shades of purple or yellow too.

Why Do Jalapenos Turn Red?

Barbara Rich/ Getty Images

Are Red Jalapenos Hotter?

Close up of red and green jalapeno plant

Credit:Scott Little

Scott Little

Red vs. Green Jalapenos: How Do They Compare?

Red jalapenos are rarely sold in supermarkets because they take longer to mature and are less profitable for sellers.

If you want to get your hands on red peppers, your best bet is to grow your own.

How Do You Measure the Heat of a Pepper?National Institute of Standards and Technology.