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Teen's Death After Spicy Chip Challenge Prompts Capsaicin Rethink

Teen's Death After Spicy Chip Challenge Prompts Capsaicin Rethink

May 21, 2024

The tragic death of a Massachusetts teenager last year after consuming an extremely spicy chip is prompting a reevaluation of capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chili peppers.

Fourteen-year-old Harris Wolobah died in September 2023 from cardiopulmonary arrest after eating a Paqui "One Chip Challenge" chip, packed with concentrated chili pepper extract. The chips, marketed with a "vengeful pleasure of intense heat and pain" theme, were pulled from shelves following Wolobah's death.

Teen's Death After Spicy Chip Challenge Prompts Capsaicin Rethink

"This case compels us to examine capsaicin and its health effects more closely," said Dr. Stuart Berger, head of cardiology at Lurie Children's Heart Center. While research on capsaicin's impact on children is limited, Berger noted an increase in emergency room visits for chest pain and heart issues in adults using capsaicin for weight loss.

Wolobah reportedly had an undiagnosed enlarged heart and congenital heart defect. The incident highlights the potential dangers of high-capsaicin foods for individuals with underlying health conditions.

Teen's Death After Spicy Chip Challenge Prompts Capsaicin Rethink

Increased Scrutiny for Spicy Food Industry

The tragedy has sparked discussions about responsible marketing of extremely spicy foods.  Angeli Gianchandani, a business professor at the University of New Haven, believes labeling these products for adults only and carrying warnings for children and those with sensitivities is essential.

Ed Currie, owner of PuckerButt Pepper Company, acknowledges heightened industry awareness regarding capsaicin. Paqui previously marketed their challenge as suitable for adults only, but acknowledged seeing a rise in teenage use.

Call for Industry Standards and Consumer Awareness

Currie, who developed the Carolina Reaper pepper, emphasizes responsible consumption and discourages challenges. He advocates for consumer education and responsible marketing within the industry.

The Wolobah incident has exposed potential risks associated with high-capsaicin foods and underscores the need for stricter labeling and marketing practices.  While the "One Chip Challenge" is no longer available, this event serves as a cautionary tale for both manufacturers and consumers.

The chips contained Carolina Reaper and Naga Viper peppers, some of the world's hottest, with Scoville heat units exceeding 1 million. Jalapeños, for comparison, score around 8,500.

Teen's Death After Spicy Chip Challenge Prompts Capsaicin Rethink

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com