“Gum Challenge on TikTok Raises Concerns among US Authorities”

By: MRT Desk

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The “Gum Challenge” or “Chlegum Challenge” has been making the rounds on TikTok and the police are issuing a warning to parents and minors alike. This viral challenge involves ingesting Trouble Bubble gum that contains the same active ingredient as pepper spray. Several students fell ill after attempting the challenge, prompting the Southborough Police Department to issue a warning on their Facebook page.

Dexter School was one of the educational institutions where the challenge was attempted. A student handed out the gum to classmates during recess on Tuesday. Concerned parents reported that children’s hands and faces turned red and some began to vomit. Several students were rushed to the hospital.

It is worth noting that Amazon and other suppliers sell chewing gums containing the same active ingredient as the police pepper spray, aka “oleoresin capsicum.” According to police, police-use pepper spray usually has a rating of one to two million Scoville heat units. This rating measures how much heat an individual feels when they come into contact with the product.

The alarming thing about Trouble Bubble gum is its rating of 16 million Scoville heat units. The police urged anyone who has used the gum to “receive treatment for extensive exposure to capsicum oleoresin.” To reduce the effects, they advise using water to rinse the mouth and spitting it out as many times as possible. In cases where a person has swallowed the saliva and is having difficulty breathing, vomiting may be necessary. These people should be evaluated and transported to an emergency room immediately.

Stay safe and avoid dangerous viral challenges that can compromise your well-being.

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