Hey Foodies! I've missed you! Let's swing into this one. We have a lot to unpack (the luggage is full).
I have found myself deep into the Mukbang phenomenon, and I feel it's quite concerning. I regret contributing to a trend that I know is linked to serious health issues. For those unfamiliar with the latest Mukbang trend, Mukbangs involve social media influencers and content creators eating large quantities of food on various platforms. This trend began in South Korea in 2010, originally intended to engage with viewers. However, in my opinion, it has turned into an international problem, with serious consequences being felt nationwide.
What is often not discussed is the number of social media creators who have died as a result of Mukbangs. There have been reports of creators collapsing during live streams, dying shortly after, or even passing away in restaurant parking lots, at home, or in hospitals. My greatest concern is that many of these individuals were under the age of 25. Are we trading lives for social media clicks and attention?
One of the most alarming aspects of Mukbang culture is not only the massive amounts of food consumed—some participants eat as much as 22 pounds—but also the type of food they choose. The majority of these meals consist of takeout, fried foods, fast foods, and heavily sauced dishes—essentially, some of the most unhealthy options available. Just think about consuming a month's worth of sodium in a single sitting. Additionally, many of these content creators are monetized, meaning they earn money from their videos. This raises further concerns about how we, as a society, perceive unhealthy content. Should we classify these videos as harmful material? After all, that's precisely what they represent. The long-term effects of Mukbangs can include kidney failure, diabetes, loss of mobility due to significant weight gain, and even death.
I am not the "food police"; I'm just a girl who enjoys writing about food. I want to be open with you all about my struggles with food because I never want to lose myself in the world of social media and the internet. We all have imperfections—some are easier to hide, while others are more apparent. However, I believe we should not contribute to harmful narratives as a community. We are all on this planet together, and I hold firm to the saying, "Each one, teach one." Share your knowledge with fellow food enthusiasts or choose not to engage in destructive discussions.
I believe social media has its benefits, I just don't believe this is one.
Thanks for listening. I will eat with you later. Peace.
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