The company behind the “one-chip challenge” announced Thursday it is pulling the fiery snack from shelves after a Massachusetts teen who participated in the viral trend died hours later.
Harris Wolobah, a 14-year-old sophomore at Doherty Memorial High School in Worcester, died in the hospital Friday shortly after eating the only Paqui chip at school.
While the medical examiner’s office has yet to determine a cause of death, his family believe complications from the social media trend led to his death.
In a statement posted on its website, Paqui said it is working to remove the chip from stores “out of an abundance of caution” in response to a growing number of incidents.
“The Paqui one chip challenge is intended for adults only, with clear and prominent labeling emphasizing that the chip is not for children or anyone sensitive to spicy foods or who has food allergies, is pregnant or has underlying health conditions” the company warned.
“We have seen an increase in the number of teens and others not heeding these warnings. As a result, while the product continues to meet food safety standards, out of an abundance of caution, we are actively working with our retailers to remove the product from shelves,” the statement continued.
Harris Wolobah, 14, died after eating the exceptionally spicy chip at school on Friday.GoFundMe
Harris went to the infirmary with a stomach ache before going home.Facebook
Harris had gone to the nurse’s office with a stomach ache after eating the chip and his parents picked him up from school, his mother, Lois, told NBC 10 Boston.
The teen was feeling better but then passed out before going to basketball tryouts, he said.
Harris was rushed to an area hospital where he died.
The one-chip challenge has been an enduring internet sensation for several years now, with even celebrities like Shaquille O’Neill hilariously attempting the feat live on television over five years ago.
The challenge has been popular online for several years. Amplify Snack Brands
The company said it was recalling the product “out of an abundance of caution.”
Part of the challenge tests how long a person eating the Carolina Reaper flavored chip can last before eating or drinking anything else to relieve themselves.
Paqui advises people to seek medical assistance if they experience trouble breathing, fainting, or prolonged nausea. It also warns “wash your hands with soap and do not touch your eyes or other sensitive areas” after touching the chip.
On Thursday, Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early, Jr. asked families to talk to children about the Internet challenge while Harris’ autopsy results are pending.
“As the investigation into the cause of death of the teenager in Worcester continues, the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office would like to remind parents to investigate and talk to their children about the chip challenge,” it said. tweeted.
According to WCVB, a candlelight vigil for Harris is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Friday at Newton Square in Worcester.
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Source: vtt.edu.vn