In a peculiar twist of culinary daring, South Korea’s latest viral food trend involves frying and consuming starch-based toothpicks. This unusual practice has captured the attention of social media users, with video clips showcasing individuals deep-frying the toothpicks, which are similar in appearance to curly fries, and seasoning them with powdered cheese and other spices. This eyebrow-raising fad has accumulated thousands of likes and shares, primarily on TikTok and Instagram, captivating audiences with a “crunch” that resonates with the booming trend of Mukbang videos, where creators consume copious amounts of food, often of an unconventional nature.
However, this quirky trend has prompted a serious response from South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. The authority has issued a clear and unequivocal health warning: “Their safety as food has not been verified. Please do not eat (them).” The starch toothpicks, commonly used for hygiene purposes in restaurants for picking up finger foods, have not been designed or tested for human consumption.
The toothpicks in question, often dyed green with food coloring for visual appeal, are made from sweet potato or corn starch and contain sorbitol—a sugar alcohol. While they’re recognized for being biodegradable and environmentally friendly, the health implications of ingesting such items have raised concerns. Sorbitol, though harmless in small doses, can cause adverse effects like vomiting, inflammation, and diarrhea when overconsumed.
The videos circulating on social media have showcased the product’s versatility beyond its intended use, and the crunchy texture has led many to disregard the potential health risks. However, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s warning reiterates that “Starch toothpicks are a hygiene product! The safety of sanitary products is managed according to standards and specifications for ingredients, manufacturing methods, and uses.”
This isn’t the first time the South Korean government has had to intervene in the realm of viral food consumption. In 2018, efforts were made to regulate Mukbang videos over concerns that they might be influencing unhealthy eating behaviors. The proposed restrictions, however, met with substantial pushback from the public, who saw them as an infringement on personal liberties.
Relevant articles:
– South Korea’s government asks people not to eat fried toothpicks
– ‘Don’t eat fried toothpicks’: South Korea warns citizens against weird social media trend, WION, Thu, 25 Jan 2024 19:13:16 GMT
– Why Many South Koreans Are Eating Fried Toothpicks, TIME, Thu, 25 Jan 2024 12:31:23 GMT
– People are eating fried toothpicks in a bizarre new trend!, Hindustan Times, Fri, 26 Jan 2024 06:58:14 GMT