One Chip Challenge Back to Market as Two Chip Challenge

After a brief hiatus following the death of a 14-year-old boy who ate one of their extremely spicy tortilla chips, Paqui has announced that it will resume selling its infamous One Chip Challenge product, but with a twist: it will now be called the Two Chip Challenge.

The company said that it has split the spiciness of the original chip into two smaller chips, each containing half the amount of Carolina Reaper pepper seasoning. The challenge now involves eating both chips, one after the other, and then waiting as long as possible before consuming anything else.

Paqui claims that this change will reduce the risk of adverse health effects from eating the chips, as well as make the challenge more fun and accessible for consumers. “We want to offer our customers a thrilling and enjoyable experience, not a life-threatening one,” said Paqui spokesperson Jessica Smith. “By dividing the spiciness into two chips, we are giving people more control over how much heat they can handle, and also creating a sense of accomplishment when they finish both chips.”

However, some critics have questioned the logic and safety of the new Two Chip Challenge, arguing that it is still too dangerous and irresponsible to market such a product to the public. “This is just a gimmick to avoid liability and attract more attention,” said Dr. James Lee, a gastroenterologist and expert on spicy foods. “Eating two chips instead of one does not make much difference in terms of the amount of capsaicin ingested, which is what causes the burning sensation and inflammation in the mouth, throat, and stomach. It can still lead to serious complications such as vomiting, diarrhea, ulcers, and even cardiac arrest.”

Lee also warned that the Two Chip Challenge could still appeal to teenagers and other individuals who are prone to peer pressure and social media influence. “The challenge is not about enjoying the flavor or quality of the chips, but about proving oneself and impressing others,” he said. “It is a form of self-harm that should not be encouraged or normalized by any company or platform.”

Paqui said that it has taken measures to ensure that its product is clearly labeled and marketed as intended for adults only, and that it does not endorse or promote any videos or posts of people attempting the challenge online. The company also said that it will donate a portion of its profits from the Two Chip Challenge to various charities that support food safety and education.

The Two Chip Challenge will be available for purchase on Paqui’s website and select retailers starting from October 31, 2023. The price will remain at $6.99 per package, which contains two chips and a pair of gloves. Paqui advises consumers to read the warnings and instructions carefully before trying the challenge, and to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any severe symptoms or discomfort.