COPENHAGEN - Danes in central Copenhagen on Aug 8 marked the return to supermarket shelves of South Korean ramen that had been banned for being too spicy, a decision that has since been partly reversed.

       Stores in Denmark in June removed three variants of South Korean Samyang Foods’ Buldak instant ramen line after the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration found their high capsaicin level posed a serious health risk.

       Capsaicin, the compound in chillies that creates a burning sensation when eaten, can cause intoxication, nausea, high blood pressure and vomiting when ingested in high quantities, the Danish regulator has said.

       Samyang, which sells the products worldwide, had contested the ban, and on Aug 8 celebrated the reversal by feeding its noodles to social media influencers gathered on a ferry adorned in the firm’s bright-red colours in Copenhagen’s harbour.

       “It’s very spicy. But now that I’ve had them a few times, I just enjoy them more and more,” said Copenhagen resident Phillip, who gave only his first name.

       Influencers who had been paid to participate joined fans in trying the noodles served by chefs on board the boat as it sailed through the Danish capital.

       The regulator’s warning in June was targeted at children, vulnerable adults and the elderly. Children and youngsters had challenged one another on social media to eat the spicy ramen.

       But the ban was lifted in July for two of the three variants after further examination of the spicy noodles showed that they did not exceed the critical capsaicin level.

       “When they were banned, I bought like 50 packages, which I still have now but I guess I have a good deposit,” Phillip said. “I feel great now that they’re available again.” REUTERS