Paqui One-Chip Challenge 2023 and 2024

The Paqui One-Chip Challenge has been a popular test of spice tolerance since its introduction in 2016. Known for its extreme heat and daring participants, it has become a viral sensation. However, after the death of a teenager in September 2023, the future of the challenge is uncertain, and Paqui has pulled the 2023 edition from store shelves.

What is the Paqui One-Chip Challenge?

The Paqui One-Chip Challenge is simple but intense: eat a single, extremely spicy chip made with some of the hottest peppers in the world, and try to resist consuming any food or drink to ease the heat. Participants have described the challenge as painful, and many have shared videos of themselves crying, sweating, or gasping for relief after eating the chip.

Since it began in 2016, the challenge has attracted spicy food lovers and daredevils alike. However, it has also led to several hospitalizations, primarily among teenagers, due to the extreme spiciness. Despite these dangers, the challenge remains popular, with participants eager to prove their tolerance for heat.

Paqui Pulls 2023 One-Chip Challenge After Teen’s Death

Paqui released the 2023 version of the One-Chip Challenge on August 9, 2023, but the product was quickly pulled from shelves following the death of 14-year-old Harris Wolobah in September. Wolobah reportedly consumed the 2023 chip before he died, although the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed. Autopsy results could take up to 12 weeks.

In response, Paqui, owned by the Hershey Company, discontinued the One-Chip Challenge and is attempting to remove the product from stores. The company also took down promotional videos from its YouTube channel. While the investigation into the teen’s death is ongoing, Paqui is reassessing the safety of its product.

How Hot is the Paqui One-Chip Challenge 2023?

The exact Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating for the 2023 Paqui One-Chip Challenge is not officially disclosed, but it is known to be incredibly spicy. The chip contains Carolina Reaper and Naga Viper peppers, both of which are among the hottest peppers in the world, with Scoville ratings exceeding 1,000,000 SHU.

The Carolina Reaper is often recognized as the hottest pepper globally, and the Naga Viper is not far behind. These peppers create an intense burn that can be unbearable for many people, making the challenge a difficult and painful experience for participants.

Differences Between the 2022 and 2023 One-Chip Challenges

Each year, Paqui tweaks the recipe for the One-Chip Challenge to keep it fresh and relevant. In 2022, the challenge featured a chip made with Carolina Reaper and Scorpion Chile peppers. The 2022 version also included a gimmick where the chip turned participants’ tongues blue—a memorable visual cue for those sharing their experience online.

For 2023, Paqui replaced the Scorpion Chile with the Naga Viper, which has a higher Scoville rating than the Scorpion. This switch may have made the 2023 version the hottest chip Paqui has ever produced. Unlike the 2022 edition, the 2023 chip did not include the tongue-coloring feature, focusing instead on maximizing heat.

Who Should Try the One-Chip Challenge?

Paqui has officially discontinued the 2023 One-Chip Challenge, but before the product was pulled, it was marketed toward healthy adults with a high tolerance for spicy foods. Anyone considering the challenge was warned to use caution and be aware of the potential risks.

The chip is vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible to people following plant-based or gluten-free diets. However, even for those with experience handling spicy foods, the challenge is not to be taken lightly. Paqui included several warnings with the product, urging participants to read all safety information before attempting the challenge.

Who Should Avoid the One-Chip Challenge?

The One-Chip Challenge has always come with clear warnings about who should avoid it. The 2023 version was no exception, as it was not intended for children, teenagers, pregnant individuals, or anyone with preexisting health conditions. People with allergies to peppers or nightshades were also advised to steer clear of the challenge.

Despite the warnings, many children and teenagers attempted the challenge, which led to several hospitalizations over the years. With the death of Harris Wolobah, concerns over the safety of the product have intensified. Paqui’s decision to pull the 2023 version and reassess its safety was a direct response to the growing reports of harm.

Where to Buy the 2023 Paqui One Chip

Since Paqui discontinued the 2023 One-Chip Challenge, finding the product has become difficult. Some remaining chips may still be available on sites like Amazon, but prices are highly inflated due to limited supply. However, Paqui advises against purchasing the chip due to the risks involved.

Given the seriousness of the situation, the company is not encouraging people to try the product, especially children, teenagers, or those with health concerns. Out of respect for Harris Wolobah and his family, it’s important to consider the potential dangers before seeking out the chip.

Why the 2023 One-Chip Challenge Was Canceled

The 2023 Paqui One-Chip Challenge was canceled after the death of 14-year-old Harris Wolobah, who consumed the chip shortly before his death. While the official cause of death is still under investigation, Paqui decided to pull the product from shelves out of an abundance of caution. The company is also reassessing the safety of the product to ensure it does not pose a significant health risk to consumers.

Paqui’s One-Chip Challenge has always been marketed as an extreme test of endurance, but the tragic incident in 2023 has raised serious concerns about whether the product is too dangerous. The investigation into Harris Wolobah’s death will likely determine the future of the challenge.

Will There Be a Paqui One-Chip Challenge 2024?

As of September 2024, Paqui has not released a new version of its One-Chip Challenge. Following the controversy surrounding the 2023 edition, which was pulled from shelves after the tragic death of a teenager, it’s doubtful that a new One Chip will be released.

In the absence of an official Paqui challenge, several copycat products have emerged on platforms like Amazon, including the RedHot Reaper Challenge and Jolochip. These imitators attempt to replicate the extreme heat and viral appeal of the original, using similarly intense peppers like the Carolina Reaper, but come with the same safety warnings.