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Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Massachusetts teen heart attack
2. Spicy chip challenge death
A 14-year-old boy in Massachusetts tragically died from a heart attack after consuming a tortilla chip containing a high concentration of capsaicin, a chemical compound found in chilli peppers. The incident occurred in September last year, but the cause of death was only confirmed recently. The boy, named Harris Wolobah, had a congenital heart defect. He attempted Paqui’s ultra-spicy “One Chip Challenge,” which included the Carolina Reaper and Naga Viper peppers. The chief medical examiner’s office determined that Wolobah passed away from cardiopulmonary arrest due to ingesting a food substance with a high capsaicin concentration. The challenge was intended for adults only, and the peppers used are extremely spicy, ranking high on the Scoville scale. Published on May 18, 2024, by Vani Mehrotra.
1. Teen in MA succumbs to heart attack from spicy chip challenge
2. Massachusetts adolescent dies from heart attack after consuming ultra-hot chip
About the Incident
Last September, in a small town in Massachusetts, a 14-year-old boy named Harris Wolobah tragically passed away after consuming a tortilla chip that contained a high concentration of capsaicin, a chemical compound found in chilli peppers. The chip in question was part of Paqui’s ultra-spicy “One Chip Challenge”, which is known for its intense heat levels.
The Tragic Outcome
Despite being aware of his congenital heart defect, Harris decided to take on the challenge, not realizing the potential consequences. After ingesting the fiery chip seasoned with both the Carolina Reaper pepper and the Naga Viper pepper, he suffered a severe cardiopulmonary arrest, leading to his untimely death.
The Chemical Culprit
Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the intense spiciness of chilli peppers, proved fatal in this case. The Carolina Reaper Pepper, known for its extreme heat levels, and the Naga Viper pepper, both contributed to the high capsaicin concentration that ultimately led to Harris’s tragic demise.
A Preventable Tragedy
According to reports, the Paqui spokesperson emphasized that the “One Chip Challenge” was intended for adults only. The packaging clearly stated that the product was not suitable for children or individuals with a low tolerance for spicy foods or underlying health conditions. Unfortunately, Harris’s decision to participate in the challenge had devastating consequences.
The Scoville Scale
The Scoville scale, which measures the heat levels of peppers and chillies, ranks the Carolina Reaper Pepper just below pepper spray in terms of pungency. The Naga Viper pepper, with around 1.2 million heat units, is significantly spicier than a jalapeno pepper, which registers at approximately 5,000 heat units.
Final Thoughts
As the details of this heartbreaking incident continue to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of understanding the risks associated with consuming extremely spicy foods. Harris’s tragic passing highlights the need for caution, especially when it comes to challenges that push the limits of one’s tolerance. Our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
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