The following was issued by cRc (Chicago): After extensive research and checking for bug infestation in peppers, the cRc now recommends that all bell peppers must have the crown/stem area removed and the rest of the outside of the pepper be rinsed and rubbed (especially in the grooves) under running water. This is true for mini peppers as well. They may not be roasted whole. The crown/stem area must be chopped off, and then washed and rubbed very well.