Citing Teen Use, Paqui Ends 'One Chip Challenge' Product Sales

WORCESTER, MA — The snack company Paqui is ending its "One Chip Challenge" a week after a Worcester teenager died after consuming a single, super-spicy chip used in the social media trend.

Paqui said it is pulling its single chip products from shelves nationwide, and offering refunds to anyone who bought a "One Chip Challenge" chip. The company cited underage use of the product against the company's guidance as the reason. Paqui has said only adults should participate in the One Chip Challenge.

"We have seen an increase in teens and other individuals not heeding these warnings. As a result, while the product continues to adhere to food safety standards, out of an abundance of caution, we are actively working with our retailers to remove the product from shelves," the company said in a message on its website.

Doherty High School student Harris Wolobah, 14, died Friday after eating one of the chips, his family has said.

Paqui's super spicy chips do not come with a spiciness rating, but the peppers used to make them are some of the hottest on the planet. Medical professionals have said consuming high amounts of capsaicin — the compound that creates the spice sensation — can cause serious health problems in high concentrations.

Wolobah's death prompted Worcester County DA Joseph Early to warn parents this week about children and teenagers participating in the challenge.

"We urge parents to discuss this with their children and advise them not to partake in this activity. The company warnings state the chips are intended for adult consumption. Other states across the country have seen hospitalizations due to the chip challenge, including teens," Early said.