S. Korean food agency warns against eating … toothpicks, seriously

Green toothpicks made of corn starch (E-land Mall)

South Korea's food and drug safety authorities on Wednesday issued a warning not to eat toothpicks -- specifically the green ones made of corn starch.

In response to a growing social media trend of cooking and eating the toothpicks, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety said the starched toothpicks are supposed to be used only for sanitary purposes.

The officials explained that the toothpicks are hygiene items, just like cups and straws, and are not subject to the safety regulations that apply to food products.

The ministry’s warning came after content creators on YouTube and other social media platforms showcased various ways of cooking and consuming starched toothpicks.

In YouTube Shorts videos, toothpicks are fried, doused in various sauces, or used as noodles for instant ramyeon. The YouTube Shorts video with the highest views has reached around 4.4 million views as of Wednesday.

Some online users raised concerns about consuming green toothpicks, while others found the idea comical and intriguing. One comment reads, "I feel like I shouldn't eat them, but they look delicious." Another comment expressed concern, stating, "I heard that there's a warning on the toothpick package advising against frying them."

In this regard, the officials highlighted that although starched toothpicks are made from edible ingredients, their safety cannot be guaranteed, reaffirming their commitment to promoting a secure environment for proper use of hygiene products.

Screenshot of YouTube Shorts videos displaying various ways of cooking and eating starched toothpicks (YouTube)