The flavour of Thames Organic Whole black pepper is vegan and GMO-free. It is pungent and slightly spicy, with a warm, woody aroma. It is often paired with salt in cooking to enhance the flavour of savoury dishes, and is also a common ingredient in spice blends such as curry powder and Chinese five spice. Certified Organic Whole black peppercorns are a staple in many kitchens, used to season dishes both during cooking and at the table. They can be ground fresh in a pepper mill or used whole in dishes such as stocks and stews for a more subtle flavour. The peppercorns are harvested when they are still green and then dried in the sun until they turn black and wrinkly. This process can take up to a week, and the drying process is what gives the peppercorns their distinct flavour and aroma with no additives and preservatives. Black pepper is actually the fruit of a flowering vine that is native to India, but is now also grown in other tropical regions such as Indonesia, Brazil, and Vietnam. The history of black pepper dates back over 4,000 years and it has been used for culinary, and even spiritual purposes in many cultures around the world.