It is a test of courage with sometimes dramatic consequences: after eating extremely spicy chips, children and young people often have to be treated in hospital. In the US in September this year, a 14-year-old died after eating a tortilla chip seasoned with what was said to be the hottest type of chili in the world. The challenge, known as the “Hot Chip Challenge” or “One Chip Challenge”, has been circulating on social networks for several years.
In Germany, two companies that sell the “Hot Chip Challenge” brand have now reacted and recalled several batches of the hot chips due to health risks. Highly fluctuating and sometimes extremely high levels of capsaicin were found in the product, according to a warning published on the consumer portal of the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety. The substance comes from chili peppers.
A total of two companies based in Frankfurt and Giessen have recalled the product. It was delivered to a large part of the federal states: In addition to Hesse, Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Rhineland-Palatinate, North Rhine-Westphalia, Lower Saxony, Bremen, Schleswig-Holstein, Berlin, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia are also affected.
The warning states that the very high level of spiciness can cause nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, burning eyes and irritated mucous membranes. The monitoring authorities now have numerous official reports on various batches of the product. Everyone is probably affected. Customers who have purchased the relevant item can return it for a refund of the purchase price and presentation of the invoice in consultation with the seller. “Please also talk to children and young people in your area and point them out to the dangers,” recommend the consumer advocates.
The actual manufacturer of the product, a company from the Czech Republic, told the German Press Agency at the end of October that the safety and health of consumers had the highest priority. The “Hot Chip Challenge” product is manufactured in accordance with EU regulations, tested and certified for human consumption. Officially, the chips are only for ages 18 and up. The packs come with detailed warnings, said a spokesman.
