On June 11, 2024, The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration issued a statement recalling specific instant ramen types produced by the popular Samyang Foods brand. As per the food agency, the capsaicin levels in them are "so high that they pose a risk of the consumer developing acute poisoning". The three recalled ramen products are Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken, 2x Spicy & Hot Chicken, and Hot Chicken Stew. Retailers have been directed to stop the sale of any of these items still on shelves. Furthermore, the Danish Food and Drug Administration has encouraged consumers (who have already bought them) to discard or return them to the retailer.
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In the statement, the food agency points out, "The amount of hot chilli is even higher in the investigated noodles than in chilli chips, which have previously led to poisoning injuries among children in Germany." The possible impact on the health of children and frail adults in particular has been underlined by the administration. It has outlined that possible symptoms of consumption of high amounts of chilli can include "burning and discomfort, nausea, vomiting and high blood pressure." The statement posted on X also makes reference to social media challenges where young users test their spice tolerance by consuming such products.
The brand told the BBC, "We understand that the Danish food authority recalled the products, not because of a problem in their quality but because they were too spicy". Samyang Foods said it was the first time the company's products had been recalled because they were deemed too hot, reported The Guardian, adding that it would look into understanding local regulations in export markets.
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