Brighton festival promises eye-watering world record attempt

The Fiery Foods Festival in Brighton next month promises a world record attempt guaranteed to make most people’s eyes water.

Chris Saunders, from West Sussex, will try to eat the most jalapeno chilli peppers in a minute on Friday 14 September.

He is hoping to beat the record of 16 set by American record holder Alfredo Herandes.

He said: “Having taken part in a couple of extreme chilli eating challenges, I’m hoping that will leave me in good stead for this attempt.

“Although I think the heat of the chillies is not going to be the main problem – it’s the speed at which I will have to eat each jalapeno and swallow before moving on to the next.

“Only time will tell if I can do it but I will do my best to bring the record to the UK.”

He volunteered for the challenge after a discussion about the world record on twitter (@FieryFoodsUK).

The Fiery Foods Festival, which is now in its fifth year, will take place at Victoria Gardens in Brighton from Friday 14 September to Sunday 16 September.

It is expected to attract more than 10,000 visitors keen to see the chilli eating contests, cookery demonstrations, competitions, live music and exhibitors at the festival.