TikTok trends often seem harmless fun, but sometimes they can lead to unexpected dangers. The latest viral food trend—cucumber salads—has landed more than one TikToker in the hospital, raising concerns about the safety of a seemingly simple dish
. Logan Moffitt, known as the “Cucumber Guy,” popularized the trend, but with its rise in popularity came a spike in kitchen-related injuries, particularly those involving mandoline slicers.1
The Viral Cucumber Salad Trend
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The cucumber salad trend exploded on TikTok over the summer, driven primarily by Canadian TikToker Logan Moffitt. Logan, dubbed the leader of the “Cucumber Community,” has captivated millions with his unique ways of eating entire cucumbers.
His simple recipe involves slicing cucumbers using a mandoline and mixing them with soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame seeds to create a refreshing salad.2 Logan’s videos frequently garner millions of views, sparking global interest in making the perfect cucumber salad.
Fans have been quick to praise the recipe’s taste, with one user exclaiming, “Finally tried the cucumber salad trend & man that yt boy did his big one!”. But as more people try to replicate the viral recipe, concerns about the use of mandoline slicers have emerged.
The Hidden Dangers of Mandoline Slicers
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While cucumbers are known for their nutritional benefits, the preparation method can introduce risks. Mandoline slicers, a staple in Logan’s cucumber salad preparation, are known for their razor-sharp blades.
These tools can be tricky and dangerous, especially for unfamiliar ones. One TikToker, @paigetaylor.s, shared a video showing her boyfriend Jackson Dean attempting to make the viral salad. Unfortunately, Jackson didn’t heed the warnings about mandoline slicers and ended up slicing off the tip of his finger.
“We got to get to the hospital,” Dean exclaimed in pain, as his girlfriend pleaded with him to be more careful. This isn’t an isolated incident. Other users, like @jayyandabby, have similarly ended up in the emergency room after slicing too close to the blade while preparing their cucumber salads.
These injuries are a sobering reminder that even simple recipes can lead to harm when not executed with caution.
Expert Warnings and Health Risks
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Beyond the immediate dangers of using sharp kitchen tools, experts are also issuing warnings about the overconsumption of cucumbers.
Daily Harvest nutrition adviser Carolina Schneider, MS, RD, notes that while cucumbers are a nutrient-dense food, too much of a good thing can lead to digestive discomfort.
The high water and fiber content in cucumbers can cause bloating, gas, and even diarrhea if consumed in excessive quantities.
Schneider emphasizes that moderation is key when incorporating high-fiber foods like cucumbers into a diet. While the viral salad may be delicious, TikTokers should be mindful of portion sizes to avoid potential health issues.
TikTok Users React to the Risks
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Following these incidents, many TikTok users are now warning others to be cautious while 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 joked, “I thought you guys were acting”. Despite these humorous reactions, the risks are very real. TikTok influencers like Alix Earle have started filming themselves using extra caution when attempting the recipe, demonstrating the potential dangers of mandoline slicers and urging followers to be careful.
Proceed with Caution
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While the cucumber salad trend may appear harmless, it has become evident that caution is needed when replicating viral recipes. Whether it’s the sharp mandoline slicer or the risk of overconsumption, TikTokers are learning that there’s more to worry about than just flavor. For those interested in trying out Logan’s cucumber salad, experts and fellow TikTokers alike advise using protective gloves or kitchen guards when slicing, and of course, enjoying cucumbers in moderation. No salad is worth a trip to the ER.
