In 2024, the culinary world witnessed a series of remarkable food challenges that captivated audiences on social media platforms worldwide. From breaking records to pushing the boundaries of culinary endurance, these challenges showcased the creativity and dedication of chefs from around the globe. 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. Cooking for an impressive 125 hours, Hilda wowed audiences with her dedication and culinary skills, solidifying her role as an advocate for African cuisine and food sustainability.
2. Alan Fisher Breaks Cooking Record with Non-Stop 119-Hour Marathon
Irish chef Alan Fisher, based in Japan, shattered two Guinness World Record titles in 2024. Cooking non-stop for 119 hours and 57 minutes, Fisher surpassed the previous record set by Hilda Baci by over 24 hours. Fans praised his dedication and celebrated 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 made headlines with his bold attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest non-stop cooking marathon. Despite claiming to have cooked for 802 hours and 25 minutes, Guinness World Records later stated that his record had not been validated. The attempt sparked widespread conversation about the limits of culinary endurance.
4. Chef Faila’s Cookathon
Chef Failatu Abdul-Razak, also known as Chef Faila, embarked on a mission to break the record for the longest cooking marathon in January 2024. Although her attempt lasted 227 hours, falling short of Guinness World Records’ guidelines, Chef Faila’s determination inspired many with her relentless pursuit of the challenge.
5. The Eatin’ Table’s Big $18 Challenge
The Big $18 challenge at The Eatin’ Table, a restaurant in southern Kentucky, went viral after a video of the challenge circulated online. Participants were tasked with finishing a 3-pound burger, a pound of fries, and a 32-ounce milkshake within 30 minutes to win the prize. Despite over 500 attempts, no one succeeded, making it one of the year’s most entertaining viral food challenges.
From record-breaking cooking marathons to quirky culinary feats, these challenges showcased the universal power of food to entertain and connect people. Which challenge impressed or amused you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
