The "Hot Chip Challenge" manufacturer has halted shipments to Germany following a spate of incidents and warnings regarding the product's extreme spiciness. A representative from the Czech-based company confirmed the news on Tuesday, after reports by Südwestrundfunk (SWR). The ban does not affect other products from the company.
The Hot Chip Challenge, which gained popularity online thanks to its blistering heat, comes packaged in a coffin-shaped container along with latex gloves for handling. The main attraction is the tortilla chip seasoned with the world's hottest chili pepper.
German state authorities, including Baden-Württemberg's Minister of Consumer Protection Peter Hauk and Bavaria's health and food safety office, have advised against consuming the tortilla chips due to health risks and past accidents. The extreme spiciness can lead to severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems in some individuals.
The spicy compound in the chips, capsaicin, can irritate the mucous membranes in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, leading to discomfort and potential long-term damage. The volatile nature of the chips also raises the risk of severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, particularly in sensitive individuals.
In light of these concerns and documented incidents, numerous health authorities, including the Bundesinstitut für Risikobewertung and Bundesamt für Verbraucherschutz und Lebensmittelsicherheit, issued warnings. As a result, Baden-Württemberg's Ministry for Food, Rural Affairs, and Consumer Protection directed lower health authorities to ban the sale of the chips, and similar measures were taken by other states.
The manufacturer, who emphasizes compliance with legal requirements, maintains that the less spicy version of the Hot Chip is harmless. However, health institutions remain skeptical and advise caution when dealing with the product.
[1] (Enrichment Data) The risks associated with consuming the Hot Chip Challenge stem from its extreme spiciness, which can lead to severe health issues such as burning sensations, vomiting, diarrhea, and heart problems. The high capsaicin content in the chips may also irritate the mucous membranes, causing discomfort and potential long-term damage. Additionally, serious reactions like anaphylaxis may occur in some individuals, necessitating health warnings and safety measures.
