Sales of Spicy Chips Halted Following Tragic Death of Teenager in Challenge

A Massachusetts teenager’s death after consuming an extremely spicy tortilla chip has sparked concerns about a social media challenge, leading retailers to remove the product from shelves.

Harris Wolobah, a basketball-loving 10th grader, passed away on September 1. His family has blamed his death on the One Chip Challenge, a viral challenge where participants eat an extremely spicy chip and see how long they can go without water or other food.

Authorities were called to Wolobah’s home on September 1 and found him unresponsive. He was pronounced dead after being transported to the hospital. The cause of death is still under investigation by the state medical examiner’s office.

Paqui, the chip’s manufacturer, has asked retailers to stop selling the product. Despite the warning label stating the chip is intended for adult consumption only, children have been able to purchase it.

The chip, which costs around $10, comes individually wrapped in a coffin-shaped box. There have been reports of children experiencing adverse reactions after consuming the chip, with several instances of students needing medical attention.

Friends of Wolobah have expressed their shock and sadness over his death and believe that the chip challenge is more dangerous than they previously thought. They are calling for the chip to be taken off the shelves to prevent further accidents.

Adults, too, have been participating in the spicy challenge. However, some have experienced negative side effects such as stomach cramps and diarrhea.

Retailers, including 7-Eleven and Walgreens, have removed the chip from their shelves. Online platforms like Amazon and eBay have also halted sales of the chip.

The popularity of the challenge has been fueled by social media, with people posting videos of themselves or their friends taking on the challenge. The chip’s manufacturer, Paqui, is actively working with retailers to ensure the product is no longer available.

The tragic death of Harris Wolobah has raised concerns about the safety of participating in the One Chip Challenge. Authorities have issued warnings to parents, and physicians have cautioned about the potential risks of consuming such spicy foods.

Eating chips with a high concentration of capsaicin, the component that gives chili peppers their heat, can have severe consequences, including fatal dysrhythmia or irreversible heart injury.

Amidst the grief and mourning, Wolobah’s family and friends held a vigil to honor his memory and celebrate his life. They lit candles, shared stories, and expressed their love for the young basketball player.

As investigations continue and awareness about the risks of the challenge grows, it is hoped that further tragedies can be prevented and the safety of individuals, especially children, can be prioritized.

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