Denmark says Korean instant noodles too spicy to eat safely

Danish Veterinary and Food Administration recalls Samyang instant noodles over ‘acute poisoning’ risk.

Denmark has banned several varieties of a popular South Korean instant noodle brand for being too spicy, advising consumers that the fiery food poses a poisoning risk.

The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration said on Tuesday that it had recalled the noodles produced by Samyang Foods because their capsicum levels are “so high that they pose a risk of the consumer developing acute poisoning”.

The decision means that the Buldak 3x Spicy & Hot Chicken, 2x Spicy & Hot Chicken and Hot Chicken Stew varieties of instant ramen may no longer be sold in Danish shops.

The food regulator said consumers who had purchased the products should discard them or return them to the shop where they were bought.

“Chili in large quantities poses a risk to children and frail adults in particular. Possible symptoms include burning and discomfort, nausea, vomiting and high blood pressure,” said Henrik Dammand Nielsen, head of the agency’s Chemistry and Food Quality Division.