Despite nine out of ten respondents considering black pepper an important ingredient and 78% of chefs using it in at least seven of their top ten selling dishes, 63% admit to having a lack of knowledge about black pepper.
The research was conducted by The Staff Canteen, a chef's website, on behalf of Santa Maria, and surveyed over 400 chefs.
Eimear Owens, country sales manager UK & Ireland, Santa Maria Foodservice, said: “Black pepper is the world’s most consumed spice but no-one has really told its story before.
“68% of chefs told us they want to know more about black pepper and are particularly interested in its taste, authenticity and provenance.
“So, we’ve produced a free online guide to give chefs the tools and inspiration to help them get the most out of the different types of peppers they use in their dishes.”
The Santa Maria Pepper Guide details how peppers vary and to best release the flavours of peppercorns.
To download the free Santa Maria Pepper Guide visit: www.tasteofpepper.com or to view an infographic, click below.