Paqui Discontinues 'One Chip Challenge' Amid Report Linking Teen's Death to Ingesting the Spicy Food
07.09.2023 - 19:27
/ justjared.com
Paqui will no longer be selling their viral “One Chip Challenge” chip amid concerns about teens consuming the dangerously spicy chip.
The product, which is sold as a single chip, is made with two of the spiciest peppers in the world – the Carolina Reaper and Naga Viper peppers. They are only intended for adults to eat and there are many warnings about the safety of ingesting them.
Earlier this week, USA Today noted that a teen named Harris Wolobah‘s death in Massachusetts was possibly linked to consuming one of the chips. A cause of death has not yet been confirmed. However, his family noted that they “suspect” it stemmed from “complications due to the ‘one chip challenge.’”
In a statement shared with the outlet, a representative for Paqui deemed it “inappropriate” to weigh in on what might have caused the teen’s death.
They issued a new statement confirming that they would no longer be selling the product.
Keep reading to find out more…
“The Paqui One Chip Challenge is intended for adults only, with clear and prominent labeling highlighting the chip is not for children or anyone sensitive to spicy foods or who has food allergies, is pregnant or has underlying health concerns,” a statement on the brand’s website reads. “We have seen an increase in teens and other individuals not heeding these warnings. As a result, while the product continues to adhere to food safety standards, out of an abundance of caution, we are actively working with our retailers to remove the product from shelves.”
The company noted that they were also offering refunds for anyone who had already purchased the product.
We will let you know if we learn more, and our thoughts are with Harris‘ family in this difficult time.