There is no easy answer to where paprika comes from. While paprika is closely associated with Hungary and Hungarian cuisine, paprika peppers did not arrive in that part of the world until the mid to late 16th century. The origin of all peppers can be traced to South America, where they grew wild and were distributed throughout South and Central America, mostly by birds. Eventually, peppers were cultivated, and native traders travelling through these regions carried them across the Caribbean as cargo in dugout canoes.  

Paprika is known for its smoky and sweet taste, and is commonly used in Hungarian and Spanish cuisine as a seasoning for stews, soups, and meat dishes. On the other hand, bell peppers have a mild and slightly sweet taste, and are often used in salads, stir-fries, and as a topping for pizzas and sandwiches.

Hot paprika, on the other hand, is made from hotter varieties of red peppers, such as cayenne or chili peppers, and has a much spicier, more intense flavor compared to sweet paprika. It adds a fiery kick to dishes and is commonly used in spicy recipes like chili, curry, and spicy sausages. The heat level of hot paprika can vary depending on the specific type of pepper used, but it generally provides a noticeable level of spiciness.

Many crushed chili pepper factories work closely with farmers and suppliers to source the best quality chili peppers for their products. By maintaining strong relationships with these suppliers, the factories can ensure a consistent supply of chili peppers year-round, regardless of seasonal fluctuations in crop yields.