Atomic Gator: what is in it and how hot it tested
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Atomic Gator tested at 1,507,489 Scoville heat units (SHU). The product page lists two peppers in it, Mustard Primotalii and Gator Jigsaw, with natural capsaicin extract added. In our tests that is about 1.5 times our pure Carolina Reaper, no. 9 Reaper X, at 975,612.
Two peppers and extract
The Atomic Gator page names three things in this SpiceQuest chili grinder:
- Mustard Primotalii
- Gator Jigsaw
- natural capsaicin extract
It gives no proportions. It says the extract makes the blend much hotter than either pepper is alone.
There is no mustard in it. The product page says "Mustard" is the olive-yellow color of the Primotalii pod, and that no mustard powder, mustard seed or mustard flavoring is used. For the pepper type, see What a Primotalii is and how hot it tests.
We also sell Gator Jigsaw as a pure pepper. Gator Jigsaw tested at 174,591 SHU, and it has its own Gator Jigsaw profile. Atomic Gator tested at about 8.6 times that.
Between the two Reaper grinders
Atomic Gator falls between no. 9 Reaper X at 975,612 and no. 10 Carolina Reaper at 2,235,842. No. 10 may contain some natural capsaicin extract. On our tier list Atomic Gator is Ultrahot, the tier from 1,000,000 to 2,999,999.
It is one of the grinders on our natural capsaicin extract page. Every result we have is on the Scoville chart.
Fruit for a moment, then fast heat
The product page describes the first taste as fruity and pepper-forward, with a little citrus and earthy green notes underneath. Light floral and sweet-fruit notes follow. Then the heat takes over quickly.
The heat rises fast and it is long and persistent. The page puts it this way: the peppers give you a short chance to taste what is there before the extract speeds up the burn. Its advice is to use it very sparingly, and we agree. Start with one press.
Who it is for
Atomic Gator suits someone who already uses a Reaper grinder, wants more heat and likes a fruity taste under it. It is not for a first-time superhot eater.
Atomic Gator and Gator Jigsaw are both limited releases, and each product page shows whether it is available. Keep Atomic Gator away from children, and read our ultra-hot safety page before you open it.
Questions people ask
Is there mustard in Atomic Gator? No. The product page says "Mustard" describes the olive-yellow color of the Mustard Primotalii, and that no mustard powder, seed or flavoring is used.
Does Atomic Gator contain capsaicin extract? Yes. The product page lists natural capsaicin extract with the two peppers, and the blend tested at 1,507,489 SHU.