Food competitions have become a global phenomenon, drawing crowds and competitors alike. With shows like “Man v. Food” and the iconic Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, these events are as much about spectacle as they are about eating. They range from speed-eating to consuming the most unusual dishes imaginable. Here are some of the quirkiest and most eyebrow-raising competitions out there.
World Slugburger Eating Championship – Mississippi, USA
At the World Slugburger Eating Championship, contestants have 10 minutes to eat as many slugburgers as possible. Despite the name, these deep-fried patties are made from beef and breading, not actual slugs. The 2012 champion consumed an impressive 30 slugburgers in the allotted time. It’s a quirky tradition with a crunchy twist.
Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake – Gloucestershire, England
While not strictly an eating contest, the Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake involves participants chasing a 9-pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a steep hill. The first person to cross the finish line wins the cheese. It’s as dangerous as it sounds, with many competitors taking tumbles on the way down.
La Tomatina – Buñol, Spain
La Tomatina is the world’s largest food fight. Tens of thousands of participants hurl overripe tomatoes at each other in the streets of Buñol. Though not an official eating contest, ambitious participants can turn it into a tomato-eating challenge if they dare to brave the chaos.
World Nettle Eating Championship – Dorset, England
This competition is as painful as it is strange. Contestants attempt to eat as many raw, stinging nettles as possible within a set time frame. The burning sensation adds a layer of difficulty, making this one of the most extreme food challenges.
Poisonous Fugu Blowfish Challenge – Japan
The Fugu Blowfish Challenge in Japan involves eating fugu, a potentially lethal pufferfish. Only chefs with special training and licenses can prepare this dish, as improper preparation can be fatal. It’s a risky culinary adventure that only the bravest (or most foolish) attempt.
Crocodile Egg Eating Contest – Pattaya, Thailand
Held at the Pattaya Crocodile Farm, this contest challenges participants to eat ten crocodile eggs as quickly as possible. The eggs’ unique texture and flavor make it tough for seasoned eaters.
World Kimchi Eating Championship – Chicago, USA
In Chicago, competitors at the World Kimchi Eating Championship race against the clock to consume as much kimchi as possible in 8 minutes. This spicy, fermented Korean dish isn’t for everyone, but it’s a favorite among those who love a fiery challenge.
Acme Oyster Eating World Championship – New Orleans, USA
Part of the New Orleans Oyster Festival, the Acme Oyster Eating World Championship, involves slurping down as many raw oysters as possible. Participants must use forks and clear their trays before starting a new one. It’s a shuckin’ good time for oyster enthusiasts.
The Inferno Bowl Challenge – St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
Contestants at The Inferno Bowl Challenge have 30 minutes to consume a 4-pound bowl of highly spicy soup. Made with some of the world’s hottest peppers, this challenge is not for those who can’t handle the heat. Only a few participants have succeeded. As of 2021, only 6 out of 589 challengers had succeeded.
The Whale Challenge – Yorkshire, UK
Andrew Dunn/Wikimedia CommonsThe Whale Challenge in Yorkshire involves consuming a huge portion of a 32oz (900g) battered haddock, 15oz (425g) of chips, and multiple sides. This supersized meal is a true test of one’s appetite and eating speed, proving an epic battle between diner and dish.
220oz Steak Challenge – County Durham, UK
Participants in the 220-oz Steak Challenge face a nearly 14-pound steak. Consuming such a colossal amount of meat requires determination and a love for steak. Only the most dedicated carnivores need to apply.
Kitchen Sink Challenge – Walnut Creek, USA
This dessert challenge involves devouring a gigantic ice cream sundae. With three bananas, eight scoops of ice cream, eight toppings, whipped cream, and nuts, this sundae is a sweet lover’s dream. Finishing it within an hour earns you free ice cream for a year.
Dumpling Challenge – Tokyo, Japan
In Tokyo, contestants compete to eat large quantities of dumplings. The exact details may vary, but the goal remains the same—eat as many delicious dumplings as possible in a set amount of time. It’s an actual test of dumpling devotion.
World Pea Shooting Championships – Witcham, UK
The World Pea Shooting Championships, a unique twist on food competitions, involve shooting dried peas at targets using pea shooters.
While not an eating contest, some participants practice their aim by eating their ammunition. It’s a quirky event that combines precision with a bit of fun.
