5 viral food challenges that broke the internet in 2024

2024 has been a year of jaw-dropping food challenges that captured the attention of social media users worldwide. From record-breaking cooking marathons to quirky culinary feats, here are five food challenges that had the internet buzzing this year.

1. Hilda Baci’s Guinness World Record for Longest Cooking Marathon

Nigerian chef Hilda Baci made history in 2024 by extending her own Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon. Following her remarkable achievement in 2023, Hilda cooked for an impressive 125 hours, wowing audiences with her dedication and culinary skills.

The event became a global sensation, with millions of viewers watching live, further solidifying Hilda's role as an advocate for African cuisine and food sustainability.

2. Alan Fisher Breaks Cooking Record with Non-Stop 119-Hour Marathon

Alan Fisher, an Irish chef based in Japan, shattered two Guinness World Record titles in 2024. Operating from his Irish-themed restaurant in Matsue, Fisher cooked non-stop for 119 hours and 57 minutes, surpassing the previous record set by Hilda Baci by over 24 hours.

The feat garnered global attention, with fans praising his dedication and celebrating the cultural fusion of Irish and Japanese cuisines on display during the marathon.

3. Ebenezer Smith’s World Record Attempt for Longest Cooking Marathon

Ghanaian chef Ebenezer Smith also made waves in 2024 with a bold attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest non-stop cooking marathon. Smith announced that he cooked for 802 hours and 25 minutes in March, a claim that quickly spread across the internet. However, Guinness World Records later stated that Smith's record had not been validated.

Adding fuel to the fire, Smith was arrested following a dispute with his sponsor, Amadia Shopping Centre, over a contractual agreement related to the event. Despite the controversy, his attempt ignited widespread conversation about the limits of culinary endurance.

4. Chef Faila’s Cookathon

In January 2024, Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak, popularly known as Chef Faila, embarked on an ambitious mission to break the record for the longest cooking marathon. Hosted at the Modern City Hotel in Tamale, Ghana, her attempt lasted 227 hours, cooking for 10 days.

Although her effort fell short of Guinness World Records' stringent guidelines, Chef Faila's marathon captivated audiences and inspired many with her determination to push the boundaries.

5. The Eatin' Table's Big $18 Challenge

The Big $18 challenge at The Eatin' Table, a southern Kentucky restaurant, became an internet sensation after a video of the challenge went viral on June 19, 2024. The task: finish a 3-pound burger, a pound of fries, and a 32-ounce milkshake within 30 minutes to win the prize.

Its affordability and the sheer size of the meal drew attention, with reactions ranging from awe to laughter at participants' struggles. By August 2024, over 500 people had attempted the challenge, but none succeeded, cementing it as one of the year's most entertaining viral food challenges.

From breaking records to testing limits, these food challenges showcased creativity, endurance, and a touch of controversy. In 2024, food once again demonstrated its universal power to entertain and connect people.

Which challenge impressed or amused you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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