Spicy food challenges have a long history. Have they become too extreme?

In this image taken from video from the YouTube channel Hot Dang Show, host Roger Trier reacts after finishing his 100 Paqui One Chip Challenge on Aug. 28, 2023, in Palatine, Ill. Trier, a 56-year-old content creator and graphic designer, says that he has trained for over 20 years to build up his spice tolerance. — Roger Trier/Hot Dang Show via AP

NEW YORK: A tortilla chip maker's decision to pull its extremely spicy product sold as a "One Chip Challenge” from store shelves following the death of a Massachusetts teen has renewed attention on the popularity – and risks – of similar dares marketed by brands and spread widely online.

Spicy food challenges have been around for years. From local chile pepper eating contests to restaurant walls of fame for those who finished extra hot dishes, people around the world have been daring each other to eat especially fiery foods, with some experts pointing to the internal rush of competition and risk-taking.