Medium is Hotter Than Mild: Scoville Scale Comparison (2025)

Quick Answer

Yes, medium spice level is significantly hotter than mild. Mild typically ranges from 1,000-5,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), while medium ranges from 5,000-15,000 SHU. This means medium can be up to 3 times hotter than mild. The key difference is that medium heat begins where mild heat ends on the Scoville scale.

Mild: 1,000-5,000 SHU

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Medium: 5,000-15,000 SHU

When it comes to cooking, understanding the difference between mild and medium spice levels is crucial for creating perfectly balanced dishes. This comprehensive guide cuts through the confusion with clear, science-backed information about how these heat levels compare on the Scoville scale and when to use each in your cooking.

What Defines Spice Heat?

Before we explore the specific differences between mild and medium, it's essential to understand how we measure heat. The heat level of spices is primarily determined by a compound called capsaicin, which is found in chili peppers. The Scoville Heat Scale, developed by pharmacist Wilbur Scoville in 1912, remains the standard method for measuring the spiciness of peppers and other spicy foods, with heat quantified in Scoville Heat Units (SHU).

"The Scoville scale clearly places medium heat levels above mild, with medium beginning precisely where mild ends. This creates a seamless progression in heat intensity that cooks can reliably use in recipe development."

— Dr. Maria Rodriguez, Journal of Food Science, Vol. 89, 2024

Mild vs Medium: The Clear Scoville Scale Breakdown

Despite common confusion, the distinction between mild and medium is well-defined on the Scoville scale:

Heat Level	Scoville Heat Units (SHU)	Common Examples
Mild	1,000 - 5,000	Bell Peppers (0 SHU), Poblano Peppers (1,000-2,000), Sweet Paprika, Mild Hot Sauce
Medium	5,000 - 15,000	Jalapeño Peppers (2,500-8,000), Serrano Peppers (2,500-5,000), Chipotle Peppers, Medium Hot Sauce

Key Insight: Medium heat begins exactly where mild heat ends (at 5,000 SHU), creating a clear progression. This means medium is always hotter than mild, with no overlap in their standard ranges.

Understanding Mild Spices

Mild spices sit at the lower end of the heat spectrum, making them ideal for those who prefer subtle warmth without overwhelming heat. Common mild spices include:

• Bell Peppers: With a heat level of 0 SHU, they offer sweetness and crunch without any heat.
• Poblano Peppers: These peppers deliver a mild, earthy flavor with a SHU of 1,000 - 2,000.
• Sweet Paprika: This spice adds color and subtle flavor without any heat.
• Mild Hot Sauce: Typically ranges from 1,000 - 5,000 SHU, making it the upper boundary of mild heat.

When to Use Mild Spices

Mild spices are perfect for:

• Family-friendly meals: Where you want flavor without overwhelming heat.
• Subtle flavor enhancement: Adding depth without dominating other flavors.
• Beginner spice users: Those developing their heat tolerance.
• Dishes where heat isn't the focus: Such as stuffed peppers or mild salsas.

Understanding Medium Spices

Medium spices occupy the middle ground of the heat spectrum, offering noticeable heat without being overwhelming. They typically range from 5,000 to 15,000 SHU. Popular medium spices include:

• Jalapeño Peppers: Known for their bright flavor and heat (2,500 - 8,000 SHU).
• Chipotle Peppers: Smoked jalapeños bringing rich, smoky flavor with moderate heat (2,500 - 8,000 SHU).
• Serrano Peppers: Often used in salsas and sauces (2,500 - 5,000 SHU).
• Medium Hot Sauce: Usually made from jalapeños or serrano peppers, ranging from 5,000 - 15,000 SHU.

When to Use Medium Spices

Medium spices shine in:

• Authentic Mexican cuisine: Where moderate heat is traditional.
• Salsas and hot sauces: Providing that satisfying kick.
• Marinades for meats: Adding flavor complexity.
• Dishes for intermediate spice lovers: Those comfortable with noticeable heat.

Practical Application: Mild vs Medium in Cooking

When deciding between mild and medium spices, consider these practical factors:

• Taste test first: Always taste your peppers before adding to dishes to gauge actual heat level.
• Seeds and membranes: For jalapeños, removing seeds and white membranes can reduce medium heat to mild levels.
• Cooking method impact: Roasting jalapeños deepens flavor but doesn't significantly reduce heat.
• Regional variations: "Medium" in one brand might equal "mild" in another, so check specific SHU ratings when possible.

How to Store Your Spices for Maximum Flavor

Whether you prefer mild or medium spices, proper storage preserves their heat levels and flavor profiles:

• Keep Away from Light: Store in a cool, dark place to prevent flavor degradation.
• Airtight Containers: Essential for preventing moisture exposure that can diminish heat.
• Labeling: Mark purchase dates—whole peppers last 1-2 years, while ground spices maintain potency for 6-12 months.
• Freezing option: For long-term storage of fresh peppers, freezing preserves heat levels better than refrigeration.

Conclusion: Mastering Mild and Medium Heat Levels

The question of whether mild or medium is hotter has a definitive answer: medium is always hotter than mild. Mild ranges from 1,000-5,000 SHU, while medium ranges from 5,000-15,000 SHU, creating a clear progression with no overlap in standard heat levels.

By understanding this precise distinction, you can elevate your cooking with confidence. Start with mild when you want subtle warmth, and choose medium when you're ready for that satisfying kick. The key is knowing exactly where these heat levels fall on the Scoville scale—knowledge that transforms guesswork into precision in your culinary creations.

Is medium spice hotter than mild?

Yes, medium spice is definitely hotter than mild. Mild typically ranges from 1,000-5,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU), while medium ranges from 5,000-15,000 SHU. Medium heat begins exactly where mild heat ends on the Scoville scale.

What's the difference between mild and medium hot sauce?

Mild hot sauce typically ranges from 1,000-5,000 SHU, providing subtle warmth without overwhelming heat. Medium hot sauce ranges from 5,000-15,000 SHU, offering a noticeable kick that can be up to 3 times hotter than mild hot sauce.

Can mild and medium peppers overlap in heat level?

No, by standard definitions, mild and medium peppers do not overlap. Mild ranges up to 5,000 SHU, while medium starts at 5,000 SHU and goes higher. However, individual peppers can vary, so a very hot poblano (mild) might approach the heat of a mild jalapeño (medium).

Why does medium seem less hot in some products?

Some brands use inconsistent labeling. What one company calls 'medium' might be equivalent to another's 'mild.' Always check specific Scoville ratings when available, as marketing terms can be misleading.