Denmark has banned a popular brand of extra-spicy Korean noodles that children on social media have been daring each other to eat.
The Samyang-branded fiery ramens — which are available in Australian supermarkets — are being removed from shelves across Denmark.
The three flavours that have been recalled are Samyang Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken, 2x Spicy & Hot Chicken and Hot Chicken Stew.
The Danish Food and Drug Administration issued a warning that the capsaicin levels were “so high that it can pose a health hazard”.
Capsaicin is the active component in chillies that causes a burning sensation when consumed or touched.
“The noodle dishes marketed as extremely strong must no longer be sold because consumers and especially children risk acute poisoning,” said a statement.
The agency said it was now “demanding shops remove the products from their shelves”.
Customers who have already purchased the hot ramen have been advised to throw them out or return the product to the store.
It comes as children and teenagers in Denmark have been daring each other to eat “a strong bowl of noodle soup”, said the agency.
One particular Samyang noodles product has gone viral on TikTok, leading to huge global sales and reports of shortages in the US.
The most at-risk segment of the population were children, frail adults and the elderly, it warned.
Symptoms of capsaicin poisoning included burning and discomfort, nausea, vomiting and high blood pressure.
The South Korean noodles company issued a statement in response to the Danish ban.
“We understand that the Danish food authority recalled the products, not because of a problem in their quality but because they were too spicy,” the firm said.
“The products are being exported globally. But this is the first time they have been recalled for the above reason.”
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