Denmark has decided to recall a variety of spicy ramen noodle products made by South Korean company Samyang due to concerns about the high levels of capsaicin in them. The three flavors being withdrawn are Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken, 2x Spicy & Hot Chicken, and Hot Chicken Stew. The Danish food agency issued a warning on Tuesday, advising consumers to avoid these products.
Samyang, the maker of the noodles, has stated that there is no issue with the quality of the food. They believe that the Danish food authority recalled the products simply because they were too spicy. This is the first time the products have been recalled for this reason, and it is not clear what prompted the Danish authorities to take action.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration found that the levels of capsaicin in a single packet were so high that they could potentially cause acute poisoning in consumers. As a result, they have advised people to either dispose of the products or return them to the store where they were purchased. The warning also highlighted the potential harm spicy food can cause to children.
The recall has sparked a debate online, with many spicy food enthusiasts expressing their amusement at the situation. Some have commented on the Danes’ perceived low tolerance for spice, with one Reddit user sharing a story about a Danish friend who found mildly seasoned shrimp too spicy. Despite this, there have been no previous recalls of the noodles in any other country, and no safety warnings have been issued elsewhere.
Capsaicin is the compound in chili peppers that creates the sensation of heat when consumed. When ingested, capsaicin binds to receptors in the mouth, leading to the burning sensation. Samyang is a well-known South Korean food manufacturer that prides itself on being the first company in the country to produce instant noodles in the 1960s.
Samyang has stated that they will investigate the local regulations in Denmark and respond accordingly. It remains to be seen how this recall will impact the availability of the products in other countries.