Voodoo Doughnut in Denver was known for running an eating challenge — eat a half-pound donut in 80 seconds and it’s free. A 42-year-old man at one of their locations took up the challenge and ended up dying of asphyxia. The challenge has since been suspended.
Travis Malouff was pronounced dead Sunday morning at 1:15 am after reportedly attempting the challenge.
After the incident, Voodoo Doughnut released a statement Tuesday reading, “Our hearts go out to the Malouff family during this very difficult time. We have suspended the eating challenge in all our locations. While this matter is under investigation, we believe it would be inappropriate to comment further.”
KDVR in Denver reports choking is an unspoken hazard in competitive eating.
One competitive eater, Bryan Beard, told the station, “I’ve choked to the point where I had to reach down and pull it out of my throat. Every competitive eater has choked. It happens.”
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