ANSES warns of health risks from extremely spicy chili challenges

Paris - 03.08.2026: The French health agency ANSES is warning against dares involving extremely spicy chips, sauces and whole chili peppers. Such challenges spread primarily through social media: participants consume products with high capsaicin content and film their reactions. The agency's warning is aimed particularly at teenagers, parents and schools.Capsaicin is the natural substance that gives chili peppers their heat. It activates nerve receptors that signal heat and pain to the brain, even though the temperature in the mouth does not rise. In high doses, the substance can cause symptoms ...