Discover where to buy 16 mesh black pepper (Costco, bulk & online), best brands for chefs, and how to grind it perfectly at home. Includes price comparisons & pro tips.

16 Mesh Black Pepper: The Ultimate Guide to Buying & Using This Chef’s Secret

What Is 16 Mesh Black Pepper?

16 mesh black pepper refers to peppercorns ground to a medium-coarse consistency that passes through a 16-mesh sieve (approximately 1mm particles). This grind size is prized by chefs and food manufacturers for its:

• Perfect balance of flavor release and texture

• Ideal consistency for rubs, brines, and dry-aged meats

• Superior cling when used as a finishing pepper

Where to Buy 16 Mesh Black Pepper (Best Sources)

1. Specialty Spice Retailers (Best Quality)

• Spice House (spicehouse.com) – $8.99/lb

• Penzey’s Spices (penzeys.com) – $9.50/lb

• Atlantic Spice Company (atlanticspice.com) – $6.75/lb (bulk)

2. Restaurant Supply Stores

• WebstaurantStore – $14.99 for 5 lbs

• Gordon Food Service (GFS) – Check local stores

3. Big Box Retailers

• Costco (occasionally carries in 5 lb bags)

• Sam’s Club (look for “coarse grind” options)

Pro Tip: Many “coarse ground” peppers at grocery stores are actually 14-16 mesh.

How to Make 16 Mesh Black Pepper at Home

Equipment Needed:

• High-quality peppercorns (Tellicherry recommended)

• 16 mesh sieve (~1mm holes)

• Commercial-grade grinder (or powerful home unit)

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Select premium peppercorns (avoid pre-ground)

2. Grind in small batches using burr grinder

3. Sift through 16 mesh sieve

4. Regrind larger pieces as needed

5. Store in airtight container away from light

Chef’s Note: Most home pepper mills produce 20-30 mesh pepper. For true 16 mesh, you’ll need a commercial grinder.

Best 16 Mesh Black Pepper Brands

1. Burlap & Barrel (Single-origin, $18/8oz)

2. Tellingicherry Direct (Authentic Indian, $12/lb)

3. Frontier Co-op (Organic, $9.50/lb)

Price Comparison (Per Pound)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I find 16 mesh pepper at Costco?
A: Occasionally in restaurant-sized packages (5+ lbs), but availability varies by location.

Q: What’s the difference between 14, 16, and 18 mesh?
A:

• 14 mesh = extra coarse (1.4mm)

• 16 mesh = ideal all-purpose (1mm)

• 18 mesh = fine restaurant grind (0.8mm)

Q: Why do chefs prefer 16 mesh?
A: It provides optimal:

• Flavor release without bitterness

• Texture for crusts and rubs

• Visual appeal on finished dishes

Professional Uses for 16 Mesh Pepper

• Dry aging rooms (forms perfect pellicle)

• Charcuterie (adheres to cured meats)

• Steakhouse rubs (creates signature crusts)

• Artisanal breads (even distribution)

Industry Secret: Many high-end NYC steakhouses use custom 16/18 mesh blends.

Where to Buy in Bulk

For quantities over 25 lbs:

• Synergy Spices (synergyspices.com)

• McCormick Industrial (for foodservice)

• Local spice wholesalers

Note: Minimum orders often apply (typically 25+ lbs)

Final Recommendation

For home cooks: Atlantic Spice Company offers the best balance of quality and price at $6.75/lb in 5 lb bags.

For professionals: WebstaurantStore provides foodservice quantities at just $3/lb for 25+ lb orders.

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