Fourteen Japanese high school students have been taken to hospital after eating chips seasoned with one of the world’s hottest chillies while they were in class.
The BBC reported that about 30 students ate the “super spicy” chips after one of the students brought them into school on Tuesday “for fun”.
Soon after eating the spicy snack, some of the students started complaining of nausea and acute pain around their mouths, prompting the Tokyo school to call emergency services.
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Local television station, Fuji TV, reported 14 students were rushed to hospital, “all conscious” but at least one feeling so unwell they needed to be taken to hospital in a wheelchair.
Chip manufacturer Isoyama Corp apologised for “any inconvenience” to customers in a statement, and wished the students a speedy recovery.
The “R 18+ curry chips”, are not recommended for those under-18 years of age and the company cautions even chilli lovers to be careful.
Those with high blood pressure and stomach issues are also advised against consuming the chips, according to the company’s website.
The “super” spice comes from the brand’s use of the ghost pepper chilli, known as one of the world’s hottest, to season the chips.