Denmark Recalls Spicy Ramen Noodles Over Capsaicin Content Concerns

Denmark's food safety agency has issued recalls for three ramen noodle products made by the South Korean company Samyang, citing potential health risks due to the presence of capsaicin chili extract in them.

The agency announced the recall of three instant ramen flavors: Hot Chicken Stew, Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken, and 2x Spicy & Hot Chicken. Consumers are advised to return the products to the store of purchase or dispose of them.

Reason for Recall

According to a statement from Samyang, the Danish food authority has recalled the products due to their excessive spiciness, rather than any quality issues. This is the first time the products have been recalled for this reason, despite being exported globally.

Denmark's Veterinary and Food Administration highlighted that children and young people were engaging in social media challenges involving the consumption of extremely spicy ramen, similar to incidents in Germany where several children were hospitalized after consuming excessively spicy chips.

The Agency found that the amount of hot chili in the ramen was even higher than in the chili chips that had led to poisonings in Germany. This poses a risk, especially to children and frail adults, with potential symptoms including burning, discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and high blood pressure.