Pure chili powders consist only of ground chile peppers, but commercial chili seasoning powders are usually blends of spices and are commonly added to chili. The compositions vary, both in the specific spices and proportions. Common ingredients include chile peppers, oregano, cumin and garlic. Salt is also often added. More unusual ingredients are coriander, oregano, cloves and allspice.

You can substitute chili seasoning for cumin, but read the ingredients of your chili seasoning powder and consider the effect on the dish you are preparing. Some chili seasonings contain no cumin at all. Do not use pure chili powder, as this contains no cumin. Consider especially the amount of sodium in the product you are using. Bear in mind that the chili component may add heat.