TikTok has consistently propelled food trends into viral sensations, and the latest craze is Tanghulu, a traditional Chinese treat where fruits like grapes and strawberries are coated in a glass-like layer of hardened sugar.
While the candy is visually appealing and fun to watch being made, attempting to recreate it at home comes with serious risks. As Tanghulu gains popularity, doctors are seeing a rise in burn injuries among children and teens attempting the recipe.
This has prompted doctors from Shriners Children’s Hospital in Boston, US, to raise concerns in a recent press release. “With nearly 25% of TikTok users being children under 17, Shriners Children’s Boston physicians are working to warn parents about a new and potentially dangerous trend gaining steam on the platform,” it read.
Dr Vibhu Kawatra, a paediatric pulmonologist and allergy specialist at Vibhu Nursing Home and Rainbow Hospital, sheds light on the situation. “Tanghulu is a traditional Chinese snack consisting of fruits, typically berries, coated in a hard candy syrup and skewered on a stick,” he explains. “Its recent surge in popularity on social media platforms has led to creative variations using different fruits, such as strawberries, grapes, and even pineapple, all coated in that shiny, crunchy candy shell.”
The appeal of Tanghulu lies not only in its taste but also in its vibrant appearance, making it perfect for Instagram posts. However, this masks the potential dangers lurking in its preparation.
Why is making Tanghulu potentially hazardous?
Dr Kawatra outlines several reasons why working with hot sugar can be particularly dangerous, especially for parents cooking with children:
High Temperatures: Hot sugar can reach temperatures of 300°F (150°C) or higher, which can cause severe burns if it comes into contact with skin.
Sticky and Hard: When hot sugar cools, it can become extremely sticky. If it spills or splatters, it can stick to skin or clothing, leading to more severe burns when trying to remove it.
Rapid Changes: Sugar can go from liquid to hard very quickly, and if not monitored, it can easily burn.
Equipment Hazards: The use of pots and pans on the gas stove increases the risk of spills and burns, especially if children are nearby. Hot sugar can splatter unexpectedly.
Inhalation Risks: If sugar burns, it can release smoke or fumes that can choke lungs.
Sugar can go from liquid to hard very quickly, and if not monitored, it can easily burn. (Source: Freepik)
Common mistakes and safety tips
Here are some common mistakes people make when preparing Tanghulu and offers tips on how to avoid them:
*Not Using a Candy Thermometer: “Always use a candy thermometer to monitor the sugar temperature accurately. Aim for about 300°F (150°C) for the hard crack stage,” advises Dr Kawatra.
*Overheating the Sugar: “Use medium heat and watch the sugar closely. Remove it from heat as soon as it reaches the desired temperature,” he suggests.
*Not Preparing Ingredients Properly: “Ensure that fruits are thoroughly washed and dried before coating them in sugar to help the candy adhere better and reduce splattering,” recommends the expert.
*Inadequate Work Space: Dr Kawatra says, “Clear the countertop of any clutter and have all your tools and ingredients ready before starting.”
*Lack of Supervision: “Always supervise children and keep them at a safe distance from the stove and hot sugar,” he stresses.
*Not Wearing Protective Gear: “Wear heat-resistant gloves and long sleeves to protect your skin from potential splashes,” says Dr Kawatra.
*Ignoring Cooling Time: “Let the tanghulu cool completely before touching or serving to prevent burns,” he cautions.
*Improper Storage: “Store tanghulu in a cool, dry place, preferably in an airtight container, to maintain its crunchiness,” suggests the specialist.
What to do in case of burns
If an accident does occur, Dr Kawatra provides these crucial first-aid steps:
-Immediately place the burned area under cool (not cold) running water for 10-20 minutes.
-Gently wash the burn with mild soap and water to prevent infection.
-Apply a sterile, non-adhesive bandage or gauze to protect the area. Avoid using cotton balls or anything that might stick to the burn.
-Apply a soothing lotion or aloe vera gel to keep the area moisturised.
-Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
-Consult your doctor as soon as possible.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Tanghulu is viral on TikTok (Source: Freepik) 
Sugar can go from liquid to hard very quickly, and if not monitored, it can easily burn. (Source: Freepik)
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