The Scoville scale

Wilbur Scoville, a pharmacologist, invented the Scoville scale in 1912 to measure the pungency of peppers and chillies, generally related to their capsaicin content. To establish a chilli pepper’s rating, Scoville would prepare it in a solution, which was then tested by five people. He increased its dilution until the sensation of heat disappeared. The score on the scale represents the level of dilution required for the sensation of heat to disappear completely.

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Alimentarium, Vevey

The Alimentarium presents the fruit of work by a multidisciplinary team of curators, education officers, guides and chefs, each adding their own flavour.

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Spice box

This covered, wooden container has three feet and four compartments to hold spices.

Place of origin: Europe

Date : circa 1740

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