South Korea warns against consuming toothpicks as viral trend leaves many perplexed

Toothpicks are typically made from sweet potato or corn starch in South Korea.

Because the toothpicks are made of cornstarch or sweet potato, many people fry them and eat them with a pinch of garnish.

South Korea’s Food Ministry is urging citizens to exercise caution as a bizarre viral trend has been gaining traction on social media — eating toothpicks. The unusual craze involves individuals frying starch-based toothpicks until they resemble curly chips and then seasoning them before consumption.

In contrast to the wooden toothpicks commonly used, toothpicks in South Korea are typically made from sweet potato or corn starch, making them biodegradable. Such toothpicks often include food colouring for added appeal.

As the post shared by @nowthis mentions, the ministry emphasised in an official statement: “This is not a product meant for consumption! Their safety as food has not been verified.”

Watch the video below:

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Visibly perplexed at the trend, one user asked, “Why would people eat plastic?” Another, who couldn’t figure out why the idea was so popular, wrote, “People thought there’d be flying cars in the future, and now we’re telling people not to eat toothpicks. SMH.” Another person asked, “Why would adults need to be warned against consuming inedible objects?”

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While the trend may have originated as a light-hearted and creative attempt to repurpose common household items, authorities are concerned about the potential health risks associated with consuming starch-based toothpicks.

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Social media viral

In this screengrab from a video posted on Sept. 4, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the gathering during a meeting with National Awardee Teachers at his official residence, in New Delhi. (@NarendraModi via PTI Photo)

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