A Massachusetts teenager named Harris Wolobah died while participating in a social media challenge involving a spicy tortilla chip. The chip he consumed contained a large amount of chili pepper extract that led to his death. Autopsy results revealed that Harris had a congenital heart defect in addition to ingesting the chip. Paqui, the company that manufactured the chip, pulled it from shelves following the incident. Harris’ autopsy indicated that he died of cardiopulmonary arrest due to consuming a food substance with high capsaicin concentration. The autopsy also revealed Harris had an enlarged heart and a congenital heart defect.
A myocardial bridge was found in Harris, a condition where a segment of a major artery of the heart runs within the heart muscle instead of on its surface. Medical experts believe that this condition may have made Harris more susceptible to the negative effects of ingesting the chile pepper extract. Large doses of capsaicin can increase how the heart squeezes, putting extra pressure on the artery. While the heart defect likely made Harris more vulnerable, individuals without underlying risks can also experience serious heart problems from ingesting large amounts of capsaicin. The cause of Harris’ death was determined months after the incident, with a death certificate released to the city clerk’s office in Worcester.
The Paqui chip challenge involved eating a chip that came in a coffin-shaped box with a warning that it was intended for the “vengeful pleasure of intense heat and pain.” The product warned that it was for adult consumption only and should be kept away from children. However, children were able to purchase the chips, leading to instances of teens getting sick after participating in the challenge. Participants were encouraged to eat the chip and see how long they could go without consuming other food or water. Sales of the chip were mainly driven by social media videos of individuals taking on the challenge.
Spicy food challenges have been popular for years, ranging from local chili pepper eating contests to restaurant challenges involving extra hot dishes. Social media platforms have escalated the trend, with people posting videos of themselves and friends participating in the challenges. Shows like “Hot Ones” on YouTube gained popularity by showcasing celebrities eating spicy wings. These challenges can involve physical risks such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, irregular heartbeats, or even heart attacks. Medical professionals have issued warnings about the dangers of consuming highly spicy foods, especially in concentrated amounts.
The phenomenon of extremely spicy products being marketed for challenges and internet fame has grown due to social media platforms. Harris’ death prompted warnings from Massachusetts authorities and physicians about the potential consequences of consuming such foods. Poison control centers also cautioned about potential allergic reactions, trouble breathing, irregular heartbeats, as well as heart attacks and strokes. The popularity of these challenges has led to instances of individuals experiencing negative health effects, emphasizing the importance of being cautious when engaging in extreme food challenges. Despite the warning labels and age restrictions on such products, children have been able to access them, leading to concerns about the safety of these extreme challenges.
