Paqui spicy chip pulled from shelves after teen death

The company behind the “one chip challenge” announced Thursday that it is pulling the fiery snack off shelves after a Massachusetts teenager who participated in the viral trend died hours later.

Harris Wolobah, a 14-year-old sophomore at Doherty Memorial High School in Worcester, died at the hospital Friday soon after eating the single Paqui chip at school.

While a cause of death has yet to be determined by the medical examiner’s office, his family believes complications from the social media trend led to this death.

In a statement posted to its website, Paqui said it’s working to have the chip removed from stores “out of an abundance of caution” in response to a growing number of incidents.

“The Paqui one chip challenge is intended for adults only, with clear and prominent labeling highlighting the chip is not for children or anyone sensitive to spicy foods or who has food allergies, is pregnant or has underlying health conditions,” the company warned.

“We have seen an increase in teens and other individuals not heeding these warnings. As a result, while the product continues to adhere to food safety standards, out of an abundance of caution, we are actively working with our retailers to remove the product from shelves,” the statement continued.

Harris had gone to the nurses office with a stomach ache after eating the chip and was picked up from school by his parents, his mother, Lois, told NBC 10 Boston.

The teen was feeling better, but later passed out before he was supposed to go to basketball tryouts, she said. 

Harris was rushed to an area hospital where he died.

The one chip challenge has been an enduring internet sensation for several years, with even celebrities like Shaquille O’Neill hilariously attempting the feat on live TV more than five years ago.

Part of the challenge tests how long a person who eats the Carolina reaper-flavored chip can last before eating or drinking anything else for relief.

Paqui advises people to seek medical assistance if they experience trouble breathing, fainting or prolonged nausea. It also warns to “wash your hands with soap and do not touch eyes or other sensitive areas” after touching the chip.

On Thursday, Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early, Jr. asked families to speak with children about the internet challenge as Harris’ autopsy results are pending.

“While the investigation into the cause of the teenager’s death in Worcester continues, the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office would like to remind parents to research and discuss with your children about the one-chip challenge,” he tweeted.

A candlelight vigil for Harris is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Friday at Newton Square in Worcester, according to WCVB.