Rules & Code of Conduct
Extreme Eating Championships is the premier organization for competitive eating. We push the boundaries of human capacity while maintaining the highest standards of safety, sportsmanship, and fair play.
Our events showcase jaw-dropping displays of speed, skill, and determination. Whether you're a first-time competitor or a seasoned pro, these rules ensure a safe, fair, and thrilling experience for everyone.
EAT OR BE EATEN
Quick Reference Guide
Essential information for all competitive eating participants
Standard Duration
10
Minutes per competition
Age Requirement
18+
Years minimum age
Safety First
100%
Commitment to competitor safety
Fast Pace
0
Tolerance for unsafe behavior
Important Safety Information
Please read these critical safety guidelines before participating
Medical Emergency Protocol
If you experience difficulty breathing, choking, or any distress during competition, immediately signal to judges. Medical staff will respond within seconds.
Pre-Competition Requirements
Waiver signing and registration are mandatory. Competition participation without proper clearance will result in disqualification.
Know Your Limits
Competitive eating is an extreme sport. Listen to your body and withdraw if you feel uncomfortable at any time during the event.
Official Competition Rules
Comprehensive guidelines governing all sanctioned competitive eating events. By implementing food-specific rules for each eating contest, EEC provides a safe, fair, and thrilling experience for participants and spectators alike.
Competition Rules
- All competitors must be 18 years or older to participate in any EEC event
- Food must be swallowed completely - any reversal of fortune results in immediate disqualification
- Water and other approved liquids are permitted unless otherwise specified for the specific event
- Contest duration is typically 10 minutes unless otherwise announced before competition
- Contestants must remain seated during competition unless instructed otherwise by officials
- Only food provided by EEC may be consumed during competition - no outside food allowed
Safety Requirements
- Medical personnel may be present at EEC competitions when available
- Participants showing any signs of distress will be immediately assisted and removed from competition
- Event staff are trained in emergency response procedures
- Emergency protocols are in place at all events
- Participants may withdraw at any point without penalty or judgment
- Participants with a history of eating disorders or choking incidents should consult a physician before competing
- Competitors with food allergies must notify officials before registration
- Anyone who has consumed alcohol within 8 hours of competition will be disqualified
Scoring & Judging
- All competitions are overseen by certified EEC judges
- Final count is determined using official scales and predetermined scoring criteria
- Only fully consumed and swallowed food counts toward your final score
- Food items must be eaten in their entirety - partial items do not count
- Judges use video review and photo finish technology for close competitions
- Scoring disputes must be raised within 5 minutes of the official announcement
- All judges' decisions are final - no exceptions
- Tampering with scales or food items results in immediate disqualification
Conduct & Sportsmanship
- Treat all competitors, judges, staff, and spectators with respect
- Unsportsmanlike behavior results in immediate disqualification
- Cheating of any kind will ban you from all future EEC events permanently
- No interference with other competitors during their performance
- Follow all instructions from judges and officials immediately
- Aggressive behavior, threats, or violence will result in removal and possible legal action
- No use of performance-enhancing drugs or banned substances
- By competing, you consent to event photography, video, and live streaming
Code of Conduct
Competitive eating is more than just a sport - it's a community. These values guide every EEC event and competitor.
Violations & Penalties
Understanding the consequences of rule violations
Minor Violations
- • Standing during competition
- • Improper food handling
- • Late arrival to competition
- • Minor unsportsmanlike conduct
Penalty: Warning or time deduction
Major Violations
- • Using prohibited substances
- • Interference with competitors
- • Regurgitation (reversal of fortune)
- • Ignoring safety protocols
Penalty: Immediate disqualification
Severe Violations
- • Cheating or fraud
- • Aggressive behavior
- • Safety endangerment
- • Repeated major violations
Penalty: Ban from future events
Questions About Rules?
For clarification on any rules or regulations, contact our officials team
Rules Committee
Official interpretations and clarifications
info@extremeeatingchampionships.com
Rules Hotline
Available during competition season