"We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. It's undeniable that food challenges are very American. This is true whether it's competitors eating as much as possible within a time limit, or an eater vs. a gigantic meal at a restaurant. They're so American that the Fourth of July is celebrated with a number of competitive eating challenges. For anyone who wants to know more, former competitive eater Jason Fagone's book, "Horsemen of the Esophagus," is a great read."
"However, food challenges aren't strictly American. Countries across the globe have restaurants offering massive meals that rival or surpass some of the largest in the States. It's been an international activity for centuries, with competitive eating challenges spanning history. Let's focus on current affairs, though, and on countries outside the U.S. offering hopeful contestants the opportunity to prove themselves in a relatively short amount of time."
Food challenges are commonly linked with American culture through competitive events that require eating maximum quantities within time limits or defeating oversized restaurant meals. Competitive eating events are tied to American traditions such as Fourth of July contests. Competitive eating has historical and international roots, with restaurants worldwide offering massive timed challenges that can rival or exceed U.S. portions. Contemporary international challenges often allow competitors between 15 minutes and an hour to finish enormous meals. Some global challenges draw inspiration from American contests, while others are uniquely designed to reflect local cuisines and culinary customs.
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