A popular South Korean instant noodle brand has been banned in Denmark for being too spicy. Authorities have also warned that the extremely hot noodles pose a poisoning risk.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration reported that three Samyang Foods noodle products were found to have dangerously high levels of capsaicin.
Capsaicin, a chili pepper extract with analgesic properties, has been used as a homeopathic remedy to treat burning pain since its discovery.
The three products from the Samyang instant ramen line—Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken, 2x Spicy & Hot Chicken, and Hot Chicken Stew—are being withdrawn from sale in Denmark.
According to the Danish agency, the capsaicin level in a single packet of these noodles was “so high that they pose a risk of the consumer developing acute poisoning.”
“If you have these products, you should discard them or return them to the store where they were purchased,” the statement added.
Researchers have noted that potential risks and side effects of consuming food with high levels of capsaicin include breathing difficulties, diarrhea, pain and redness in the eyes or on the skin, and respiratory distress if inhaled.
Samyang Foods responded, stating it was the first time the company’s products had been recalled for being too spicy. The company also mentioned it would work to better understand local regulations in export markets.
Speaking to the news agency AFP, a company spokesperson said, “Currently, the products are being exported around the world, but this is the first time they have been recalled for this reason.”