Two taken to hospital after ‘hottest chilli’ curry contest

Published on Wednesday 5 October 2011 23:58

TWO people had to be rushed to hospital after a “world’s hottest chilli” competition at an Indian restaurant left them writhing in agony.

Emergency services were called to the Kismot Restaurant in Edinburgh on Saturday afternoon when a number of competitors started vomiting and fainting.

Twenty participants signed a legal disclaimer before sampling any of the chilli-filled dishes. However, ten people dropped out after witnessing the others in severe pain and collapsing.

Currie Kim, 21, a Korean exchange student at Edinburgh University, who came second in the competition, had to be twice taken to hospital by ambulance.

Ms Kim said: “I’ve always enjoyed spicy foods and thought this was for a good cause. But it came with a price. I first went to hospital at around 4pm, and the second time was at 9pm. It got really bad. I have never endured such pain in my life.”

Last night Abdul Ali, who owns the restaurant in St Leonard’s Street, admitted he may have to “lower the bar” but said the event raised hundreds of pounds for charity.

The Scottish Ambulance Service called for the holding of the event to be reviewed.