Denmark recalls popular Korean instant noodles for being too spicy
Denmark recalled several instant ramen noodle products of the South Korean company Samyang, as its spice levels were deemed "so high" that they can allegedly "poison" consumers.
BBC reported that Samyang's "Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken," "2x Spicy & Hot Chicken," and "Hot Chicken Stew" are being withdrawn from Danish markets after Denmark's food agency asked consumers to abandon them.
It's unknown if any specific incidents prompted the move.
The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, on its website, said that based on its assessment, a single packet's levels of capsaicin (the chemical compound in chili peppers that account for their hot taste) is "so high that they pose a risk of the consumer developing acute poisoning."
"If you have the products, you should discard them or return them to the store where they were purchased," the agency said in an English translation.
It also warned parents that if their children showed acute symptoms after eating strong chilis, they must contact the country's Poison Line.
The Korea Times reported that Samyang was "apparently unaware" of the Danish government's move. An official said it's currently looking into the matter.
The manufacturer said it marked the first recall due to its product's spiciness.
Samyang released the instant noodle line in 2012 and has gained worldwide popularity.
In particular, content creators on YouTube participated in the so-called "Spicy Noodle Challenge" involving the product.