Denmark has recalled several spicy ramen noodle products from South Korean company Samyang, citing that the capsaicin levels could potentially poison consumers.
The recall involves three flavors: Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken, 2x Spicy & Hot Chicken, and Hot Chicken Stew.
The Danish food agency issued the recall and warning on Tuesday, urging consumers to dispose of the products. However, Samyang insists there is no quality issue.
“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 company stated to the media.
“The products are being exported globally. But this is the first time they have been recalled for the above reason.”
It’s unclear if any specific incidents in Denmark led to the action. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration assessed the capsaicin levels in a single packet as “so high that they pose a risk of the consumer developing acute poisoning.”
They advised consumers to either discard the products or return them to the store of purchase, emphasizing that extremely spicy food can be particularly harmful to children.
The recall has sparked online discussions, with many amused reactions from spicy food enthusiasts.
One popular comment on the Reddit r/Korea group read, “I had a friend from Denmark who thought tasteless breaded shrimp with a little bit of ground pepper on it was too spicy. Not surprised they think this ramen is poison.”
Samyang plans to “closely look into the local regulations” in Denmark before responding. The noodles have not been recalled in any other country, and no other safety warnings have been issued.
Capsaicin, the chemical compound in chili peppers responsible for the burning sensation, binds to receptors in the mouth when consumed.
Samyang, a leading South Korean food manufacturer, is known for being the first company in the country to produce instant noodles in the 1960s.
Source-BBC
