14 Japanese high school students hospitalised after eating India's bhut jolokia chips

The product contains a significant amount of ghost pepper, also known as bhut jolokia, which is renowned for its intense heat.

Fourteen high school students in Tokyo were hospitalised on Tuesday after consuming extremely spicy potato chips, local media reported. The students, all conscious, experienced severe discomfort, with one requiring a wheelchair for transportation due to feeling particularly unwell.

The incident occurred during recess when over 30 students were sharing the chips. Several students began to feel nausea and intense pain around their mouths. The culprit was identified as "R 18 Curry Chips," known for their extreme spiciness.

A male student had brought the chips to school "just for fun," having previously tried them and found them exceptionally spicy. The manufacturer's website explicitly warns that individuals under 18 should avoid the product, stating, “People aged under 18 should refrain from eating this product because it is too spicy. Not only people who are not good at spicy foods but also those who like spicy foods need to be cautious while eating this product.”

The product contains a significant amount of ghost pepper, also known as bhut jolokia, which is renowned for its intense heat. Bhut jolokia, originating from Northeast India, held the Guinness World Record for the hottest chilli pepper from 2007 to 2011.

The manufacturer's website features multiple warnings for potential consumers. It states that those with high blood pressure, weak stomachs, or those who are "timid and have no guts" are discouraged from consuming the product.

Isoyama Corp, the snack manufacturer, issued an apology for the incident. “We deeply regret any inconvenience caused to our customers and wish the affected students a swift recovery,” the company stated. The chips, marketed as "R 18+ Curry Chips," carry clear labels and warnings about their extreme spiciness.