DADADEL
TikTok trends often seem like harmless fun, but some can unexpectedly lead to danger. The latest viral food craze, cucumber salad, has resulted in several TikTok users being hospitalized, sparking concerns over a seemingly simple recipe. Logan Moffitt, also known as the “Cucumber Guy,” popularized the trend, but the rise in its popularity has been met with an increase in kitchen injuries, particularly involving mandoline slicers.
This cucumber salad craze took off on TikTok over the summer, led by Canadian TikToker Logan Moffitt. Logan dubbed the leader of the “Cucumber Community,” has captivated millions with his creative ways of eating whole cucumbers. His recipe, which involves slicing cucumbers with a mandoline and combining them with soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame seeds, has become a sensation. His videos, often gaining millions of views, have inspired a worldwide following eager to replicate the dish. One fan praised the dish, saying, “Finally tried the cucumber salad trend & man that yt boy did his big one!” However, as the trend grows, so do concerns about the potential dangers posed by mandoline slicers.
@logagmAnother day another cucumber salad
Though cucumbers are a nutritious food, the preparation method introduces risks. Mandoline slicers, a key tool in Logan’s salad preparation, have extremely sharp blades that can be dangerous, especially for beginners. TikToker @paigetaylor.s shared a video where her boyfriend, Jackson Dean, tried making the salad but accidentally sliced off the tip of his finger. “We got to get to the hospital,” Dean exclaimed, while his girlfriend pleaded for more caution. Unfortunately, Dean’s mishap isn’t an isolated case. Other users, like @jayyandabby, have also ended up in the emergency room after getting too close to the slicer’s blade. These incidents highlight that even a simple recipe can lead to harm if safety precautions are not followed.
@jacksondeanThis is how i ended up in the er…♬ original sound – jackson
Aside from the immediate risk of injury, experts also warn about the potential health risks associated with eating too many cucumbers. Carolina Schneider, MS, RD, a nutrition adviser for Daily Harvest, notes that although cucumbers are packed with nutrients, overconsumption can cause digestive issues. The high water and fiber content in cucumbers can lead to bloating, gas, and diarrhea when eaten in large amounts.
Schneider advises moderation when incorporating high-fiber foods like cucumbers into a diet, emphasizing that while the salad may be delicious, TikTokers should watch their portions to avoid discomfort.
In light of these incidents, many TikTok users are now warning others to be extra careful when making the viral cucumber salad. One commenter on Dean’s post wrote, “What did we learn here today, NEVER LET JACKSON MAKE A CUCUMBER SALAD,” while another quipped, “I thought you guys were acting”. Despite the humor, the risks are real. Influencers like Alix Earle are now showing themselves using extreme caution when preparing the recipe, underscoring the need for safety with mandoline slicers and urging their followers to take care.
What may seem like a harmless food trend has shown that caution is essential when attempting viral recipes. Whether it’s the dangers posed by sharp kitchen tools or the health risks of overconsumption, TikTokers are learning that there is more to these trends than just flavor. For anyone looking to try Logan’s cucumber salad, experts and fellow TikTokers advise wearing protective gloves or using kitchen guards when slicing and consuming cucumbers in moderation. After all, no salad is worth a trip to the emergency room.
