Kuang Ke and his associate Jiang Sheng manage a fish pond spanning about 4 hectares in Changsha, Hunan province. Recently, their farm gained particular attention due to the spicy diet provided to their school of over 2,000 fish.

The idea originated when Kuang observed an abundant local supply of chili peppers, which were often surplus or rejected due to poor appearance. He decided to collect this produce for animal feed.

"During peak times, we can consume up to 5 tons of chili peppers daily", Kuang stated in Jiupai News. According to the pond owner, the fish eat various types, from bell peppers to bird's eye chilies.

Kuang Ke, 40, feeds 2,000 fish 5 tons of chili peppers daily at his farm in Hunan, China. Photo: Baidu

A video showing the pond surface red with chili peppers and fish scrambling for food quickly went viral on Chinese social media. Kuang described the fish as "very addicted" to this, often swimming after the chili peppers as soon as they are tossed in. Responding to concerns about the fish finding it too spicy, he humorously replied, "People who eat spicy food drink water; fish live in water, so if it's too spicy, they just drink more water".

Scientifically, expert Xu Shude of Hunan Agricultural University explained in the Xiaoxiang Morning Post that fish have different sensory mechanisms than humans. They primarily use their sense of smell to forage, so the pungent taste of capsaicin in chili peppers does not affect them.

"The compounds in chili peppers can stimulate appetite, aid digestion, and boost anti-inflammatory capabilities, preventing parasites in fish", Mr. Xu stated. Previous studies at Çukurova University (Turkey) also showed chili extract could promote better growth in rainbow trout. The U.S. National Library of Medicine indicates that the pungent compound (capsaicin) affects different species differently: it impacts cod clearly but causes no reaction in zebrafish.

A pond owner in Hunan province, China, feeds 2,000 fish 5 tons of spicy chili peppers daily, believing it makes the fish meat more fragrant and delicious. Video: Da Wan

Economically, the two farm owners said this method utilizes agricultural waste and reduces feed costs. They claim chili-fed fish have shiny scales, vibrant colors, and more fragrant, delicious meat compared to conventionally raised fish.

However, the figure of "5 tons of chili peppers for 2,000 fish" still sparks much debate regarding its practicality. Many suggest this could be an exaggeration to promote Hunan's "spicy fish" brand, a region known for its pungent culinary culture.

Minh Phuong (According to Jiupai News, Xiaoxiang Morning Post)