German health authorities have been alarmed since a new internet challenge started making the rounds and has already led to several medical emergencies. In the so-called Hot Chip Challenge, one tortilla chip is eaten, which, according to the manufacturer, is flavored with the hottest type of chili in the world. Two girls from Garmisch-Partenkirchen ended up in hospital because of the courage test.
The 13- and 14-year-old girls bought the chips from a vending machine and ate them on Friday, a police spokesperson said. According to researchers, the corn chip contains the Carolina Reaper, the hottest chili variety in the world.
After eating the chip, the girls were taken to the Garmisch-Partenkirchen clinic with acute respiratory problems and stomach problems. They were released there in good health on Friday, the police said on Monday.
Laboratory investigates life-threatening situation
According to the researchers, the state laboratory of the Hessian Ministry of the Environment is currently testing to what extent the sharp chip is harmful to health and whether it should be withdrawn from the market. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) warned in September against tests of courage such as the “Hot Chip Challenge”. “In some cases, consumption has already led to medical emergency calls,” the BfR says.
Death in the US
In the US, a 14-year-old even died after eating such a chip. According to the deceased’s mother, after the courage test, the teenager complained of severe stomach pain and went to the school doctor. A little later the boy was picked up by his mother. He felt better at home, the woman from the state of Massachusetts told American media. But when the basketball player wanted to leave for training, he collapsed and died a short time later in hospital. It is believed that there is a direct connection between death and the test of courage.
Following this tragedy and several other medical emergencies, American manufacturer Paqui Chips has halted further sales in the US. At the same time, it was highlighted in early September that the packaging of the product, which is listed in the United States as ‘One Chip Challenge’, clearly stated that it should not get into the hands of children or sensitive people (see message above). “After handling the chips, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and avoid contact with the eyes and other sensitive parts of the body!” there is another warning on the coffin-shaped packaging.
Czech producer promotes Challenge
In Germany and other European countries, a Czech company sells the most popular chips in the world. The “Hot Chip Challenge” is still being advertised on their website. You can even win an iPhone. However, it is stressed that the challenge is not aimed at children, pregnant or breastfeeding women or people with digestive problems.
Source: Krone
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