Texas Parents Beware: TikTok’s Viral Candy Trend Leading to Burn Injuries in Kids
Parents across Texas have long been warned about the dangers of TikTok trends, but a new series of viral challenges involving food preparation is causing significant concern due to the risk of severe burns among children.
As these dangerous trends gain traction, it's more important than ever for parents to stay vigilant and have open discussions with their kids about online safety.
One of the most alarming trends currently circulating is the making of "Tanghulu," a traditional Chinese candy made by coating fruits like grapes or strawberries in molten sugar.
While the treat itself may seem harmless, the process of making it is not. To create the candy shell, sugar must be heated to extremely high temperatures—far beyond what many realize. The sugar reaches over 300°F, which is even hotter than boiling water, making it incredibly dangerous if mishandled.
This trend has gained widespread popularity on TikTok, with countless users attempting to replicate the recipe at home, often without taking the proper precautions.
Unfortunately, this has led to a disturbing rise in cases of severe burns, particularly among children and teenagers. Shriners Children's Hospital in Boston recently issued a warning about the surge in burn injuries caused by these homemade Tanghulu attempts.
Similarly, in Pennsylvania, a 9-year-old boy suffered serious burns after trying another TikTok trend, the Jolly Rancher grape recipe, where molten candy spilled on his hand. This incident resulted in second-degree burns that required multiple hospital visits.
Doctors advise parents to be cautious when their children experiment with such trends. The high-temperature sugar used in these recipes hardens quickly when exposed to cooler air, increasing the risk of severe burns.
Medical professionals urge users to take safety precautions, such as wearing gloves and closely supervising children in the kitchen.
Many young users lack the experience to handle such high-temperature cooking, and the consequences have been dire—second- and third-degree burns are becoming more common.
It's essential for parents to not only be aware of these viral trends but also take proactive steps to educate their children about the serious risks involved.
While TikTok is filled with creative and fun ideas, the potential dangers of some challenges, like making Tanghulu, should not be underestimated. With the rise of food-related TikTok trends, it's essential to prioritize safety and be aware of the potential hazards involved in recreating these viral recipes.
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Gallery Credit: Jessica Poxson