Paqui's One Chip Challenge Suspended After Teen's Tragic Death: Risks of Extreme Spiciness

Paqui One Chip Challenge Carolina Reaper Naga Viper spicy chip Harris Wolobah

By E.Baloyo , Parent Herald Sep 08, 12:24 am

Following the heart-wrenching death of a 14-year-old boy, the viral sensation "One Chip Challenge" by Paqui is facing unprecedented scrutiny, pushing the company to pull the product from the shelves and highlight the potential perils of such extreme spicy chip challenges.

Viral Challenge That Went Too Far

Since 2016, the "One Chip Challenge" has gained immense popularity, especially among the younger generation. Participants devour a single spicy chip and film their reactions, often sharing their experiences on platforms like TikTok where the hashtag #onechipchallenge boasts over 2 billion views. But the thrill of the challenge has now been overshadowed by tragedy.
Harris Wolobah, a teenager who decided to take on Paqui's One Chip Challenge, became the center of this heartbreaking incident.

His family suspects complications from the One Chip Challenge were behind his tragic passing. Lois Wolobah, Harris's mother, recounted the harrowing experience, stating that Harris ate the spicy chip and soon complained of a stomachache. Though there was a brief moment of relief, Harris's condition rapidly deteriorated, eventually leading to his unfortunate death.

Behind the Heat: Carolina Reaper and Naga Viper Peppers

Paqui has always been distinct, priding itself on using real peppers to deliver the heat, instead of relying on artificial ingredients.

The Carolina Reaper and the Naga Viper are the main culprits behind the scorching spiciness of the chip.

The One Chip Challenge doesn't hold an "official Scoville rating," but with the Carolina Reaper boasting 1.7 million Scoville units and the Naga Viper trailing close behind at 1.4 million units, it's evident that this chip is not for the faint-hearted.

To put it in perspective, a habanero pepper, considered extremely spicy by most, only registers between 100,000 and 300,000 Scoville units.

Rising Concerns Over the Spicy Chip's Health Implications

The recent incident has thrown the risks associated with the One Chip Challenge into the spotlight.

Paqui responded promptly by updating their website with a disclaimer emphasizing that the product is specifically for adults. They caution against its consumption by children, individuals sensitive to spicy foods, those with allergies, pregnant women, or those with underlying health issues.

However, this isn't the first time concerns about the One Chip Challenge have surfaced. Previously, school districts in California and Massachusetts issued warnings when the spicy chip challenge went viral.

The health repercussions of consuming extremely spicy food are not to be underestimated. Symptoms can range from vomiting and diarrhea to severe headaches and chest pain, particularly for those unaccustomed to spicy food.

Dr. Allan Capin, in a recent report from the Cleveland Clinic, mentioned, "Most people aren't used to that level of heat and are going from zero to 100 when they do something like the 'One Chip Challenge.' It's akin to setting off a bomb in your stomach if you're unprepared."

In conclusion, while the world awaits the autopsy results to determine the exact cause of Harris Wolobah's untimely demise, the tragic event underscores the potential hazards of the One Chip Challenge.

The growing concerns surrounding the product make it imperative for consumers to exercise caution and prioritize safety over virality.