Harmless or triggering? What dietitians have to say on the food eating videos known as mukbangs

A man has gained millions of views on a video where he records himself eating an excessive amount of fast food. This type of video is known as a mukbang, which originated from Korea and involves people eating a large quantity of food while interacting with their virtual audience. Mukbangs have become increasingly popular on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, with some videos featuring influencers biting into various foods and capturing the sounds of their chewing. However, dietitians are expressing concerns about the potential negative impact of this trend. They worry that extreme mukbang videos may encourage overeating, promote unhealthy food choices, or trigger disordered eating patterns. Some viewers may also not realize that certain videos may be edited to create the illusion of eating, while the food is actually discarded off-camera. While some mukbangs can offer inspiration for trying new recipes or connecting with others who share a passion for food, it’s essential for individuals to prioritize their own health goals and be mindful of their consumption habits.