Paqui One-Chip Challenge 2023… is canceled?
THIS ARTICLE WAS WRITTEN ON AUGUST 10, 2023, AND UPDATED ON SEPTEMBER 11, 2023 WITH NEW INFORMATION.
The Paqui One Chip Challenge, a timeless ritual known to every lover of fiery flavors, is a true classic in culinary dares.
And now, as anticipation peaks and hearts race, the curtain rises once again with the recent announcement of the 2023 version. In this latest installment, Paqui promises a culinary escapade that captures the spirit of the original challenge while igniting new levels of heat and excitement.
Unfortunately, after the death of a teenager in September 2023, the future of the One Chip Challenge is uncertain.
What is the Paqui One Chip Challenge?
Since its inception in 2016, the Paqui One-Chip Challenge stands as both a delight and a daunting trial for aficionados of spicy cuisine. The heart of this challenge lies in a lone chip, so intensely fiery that it has been known to evoke tears from even the most stoic individuals. Despite reports of several hospitalizations—primarily teenagers—stemming from their brave (or arguably stupid) encounters with the One Chip Challenge, the allure of the endeavor remains unshaken, drawing in countless participants.
The task at hand is as simple as it is intense: consume the solitary chip, refraining from consuming any form of beverage or food to quell the searing heat. It’s a test of taste bud resilience and the willpower to endure the inferno within.
Is there a 2023 version of the Paqui One Chip Challenge?
Paqui unveiled the newest iteration of their famed One Chip Challenge on August 9, 2023. However, it has since been pulled from shelves after the death of a teenager, possibly due to trying the One Chip Challenge. Their official promo video was also removed from their YouTube channel.
One Chip Challenge 2023 canceled after a teen’s death
In early September, 14-year-old Harris Wolobah died shortly after eating the 2023 One Chip Challenge. The official cause of death is not yet been reported, as autopsy reports can take up to 12 weeks to be released
In response, Paqui (owned by Hershey Company) has discontinued the One Chip Challenge and is trying to pull it from store shelves.
How hot is the Paqui One Chip Challenge 2023?
When it comes to quantifying the heat level of the Paqui One Chip Challenge 2023, a precise Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) rating remains unknown. Notably, Paqui has chosen not to provide an official Scoville rating for this iteration of the challenge.
However, they have harnessed the formidable heat of the Carolina Reaper Pepper and the Naga Viper Pepper, both renowned as among the hottest peppers globally. These peppers each boast a staggering Scoville rating exceeding 1,000,000 SHU, contributing to the searing intensity that participants can anticipate from this latest rendition of the challenge.
What’s the difference between Paqui One Chip 2022 and 2023?
In a testament to their commitment to sustained engagement, Paqui employs subtle tweaks to the One Chip Challenge recipe every year, ensuring its continued relevance and virality. The 2022 iteration offered an unexpected twist by turning tongues an electrifying shade of blue—a memorable component that takes a backseat in the 2023 version.
While the 2022 challenge showcased the fiery duo of the Carolina Reaper Pepper and the Scorpion Chile Pepper, this year’s 2023 rendition shifts its focus to the formidable Naga Viper Pepper as the secondary ingredient. The Scorpion Pepper, renowned for its robust heat at approximately 1,200,000 SHU, gives way to the Naga Viper Pepper, with its intense Scoville rating of around 1,350,000 SHU. With this adjustment, it is possible that the 2023 One Chip is their hottest chip yet, promising an unparalleled taste bud trial for all daring participants.
Who should try the One Chip Challenge 2023?
Out of an abundance of caution, Paqui has discontinued the 2023 One Chip Challenge pending an investigation into the product’s safety for anyone.
The 2023 Paqui One Chip Challenge was intended for healthy adults with a high spicy food tolerance. If you’ve successfully completed a previous One Chip Challenge, you can expect a similar or slightly spicier experience with this year’s version.
It’s worth noting that the 2023 One Chip is both vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals following plant-based or gluten-free diets.
If you’re considering taking on the challenge, make sure to use your best judgment and carefully read all the provided warnings and information. This challenge is not to be taken lightly, and it’s essential to be well-prepared before attempting it. It can be extremely dangerous to try, especially if you are a child/teenager, are sensitive to spice, or have certain preexisting conditions.
Who should avoid the One Chip Challenge 2023?
Approach the 2023 Paqui One Chip Challenge with caution, as it comes with several warnings. This chip is unsuitable for children, pregnant individuals, those with certain medical conditions, people allergic to peppers or nightshades, and those with a low tolerance for spicy foods.
These chips are free from allergens recognized by the FDA and are gluten-free. However, it’s worth noting that they do not hold Kosher or Halal certifications. While some can enjoy the challenge, it’s important to be aware of your limitations and preferences, especially if you fall into any of the mentioned categories.
Due to the death of Harris and other reports of children and teenagers requiring emergency medical care after eating the One Chip, Paqui is reassessing the safety of their product.
Where to buy the Paqui One Chip 2023 version
Because Paqui has discontinued the One Chip Challenge 2023, it is very difficult to find it. There are still a few left on Amazon, although at extremely inflated prices. If you decide to give it a try, keep in mind that there are serious risks, and this challenge should never be done by children, teens, pregnant people, or those struggling with certain health issues.
Out of respect for Harris and his family, we are not linking to the product or encouraging people to try it.
Normally with a legacy steeped in spice and excitement, this year’s One Chip Challenge has been dampened by the tragic death of a teenager. Pulling the product to reassess its safety and wait for the official medical reports was the only option for Paqui to ensure the product is not causing harm.
