What’s happening
The South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recently issued a health warning urging the public to avoid consuming a new social media sensation: fried toothpicks. This trend has become popular due to viral social media posts on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Why it matters
The burgeoning fad involves deep-frying sanitized toothpicks made of starch, with added seasoning such as cheese powder, and presenting them in a manner reminiscent of curly fries. Social media influencers have exacerbated the trend by posting videos eating these items, with such clips gaining significant traction online. With the trend’s growing popularity, the potential risk for health complications has compelled authorities to intervene.
The Safety Concern
The Ministry’s caution comes after noting that fried toothpicks have not been vetted for safety when eaten and warns individuals against consuming these unconventional ‘snacks’. This measure has been taken to prevent possible health hazards associated with ingesting non-food items despite being manufactured from generally edible substances like sweet potato or cornstarch.
Pop Culture and Eating Trends
“Mukbang,” online broadcasts where individuals eat large quantities of food or unconventional items, are a popular trend in South Korea, which may further fuel experimental eating habits. The toothpicks, while acclaimed for their crispiness and colorful appearance due to food coloring, weren’t intended for human consumption and their safety profile remains unverified when prepared and ingested in this manner.
The Bottom Line
The fad of eating fried, green-hued toothpicks poses an unresolved health risk, prompting South Korean food and drug safety authorities to strongly advise against partaking in this social media-driven trend despite its online appeal.
This story was first published on jpost.com.