Car Mukbangs Have 677 Million Posts on TikTok But Could Result in Illness: Experts Warn

The internet is obsessed with Crumbl Cookies, and many fans are traveling far to get their hands on them. Searches for ‘crumbl cookies’ have increased by 78% in the past 12 months in the U.S., reaching a search volume of over 7.6 million.

Crumbl began in 2017, aiming to bring people the best cookies in the world. Crumbl Cookies now has over 385 million posts on TikTok. Many cookie lovers have driven long distances to try out the cookies, with Crumbl drive-thrus being a popular choice.

Despite ‘mukbang in the car’ having over 677 million posts on TikTok, driving experts at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have spoken exclusively with health experts Dr. Singh and Dr. Nye to reveal why you should rethink hopping on the trend of eating in your car.

Why are mukbangs trending?

Mukbangs have become a viral trend on social media, with users becoming obsessed with watching creators ‘eat with me’ style videos. Foodie influencers are growing in popularity, with fans hooked on watching them eat takeaways, drive-thrus and viral food trends. The word “mukbang” is derived from a mashup of the Korean words “meokda,” which translates to eat, and “bangsong,” which means broadcast.

TikTok user @l1z1n9uy3n is one of many influencers who have gone viral for their mukbang videos. Her mukbang videos gain millions of views, with a Crumbl Cookie mukbang in her car gaining over 15 million views and 1.7 million likes. The video has over 10.6k comments, with users commenting “I’m so jealous” and “I’m getting a sugar high just watching”, showing how invested viewers can become when watching mukbangs.

Drivers risk health implications from eating at drive-thrus in their cars

Dr Gareth Nye, lecturer in medical science, explains, “Eating in the car will ultimately lead to deposits of food material being spread around. The obvious example is crumbs, but transfer from your hands and deposits from spit through talking and chewing will transfer the perfect bacterial breeding ground around your car.

“A recent study showed that there are a number of areas which have high bacterial counts. The car trunk was the highest, with nearly 1500 different bacteria identified. The driver’s seat, gear stick, dashboard and steering wheel all carry significant bacterial loads. However, this study was done in cars up for sale, and I imagine bacterial numbers would be much higher in regularly used cars.

“The most common bacteria found in vehicles is E. coli, which lives in our intestines. E. Coli is harmless; however, in some cases, it may result in food poisoning. A strain of Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus are also the most common bacterias of most car surfaces tested.”

Experts reveal best practices for eating in your car

Dr. Singh shares advice to those who are considering eating in their vehicle: “Eating or storing food in a car can often result in spills and crumbs, which may harbor bacteria, mold, or attract pests if not cleaned thoroughly. This can create an unsanitary environment, not only for eating in but also for maintaining good health and hygiene.

“Storing and eating food in your vehicle can increase bacteria growth, which can result in many health implications. Interiors of cars can be awfully hot during the summer and really cold during the winter, and both these excessive conditions bring negative health implications.

“There are some bacteria, such as Salmonella and Listeria, whose ideal temperature of growth falls in the 40°F-140°F range typically found in a normal enclosed automobile. This increases the risk of foodborne illnesses. Drivers should always make it a point to eat their meals in a controlled environment where they can better appreciate their food and maintain proper storage conditions for leftovers or snacks.”

Car expert reveals best practices for keeping vehicle clean

Keith Hawes, Director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, comments: “Ensuring your vehicle is kept in a hygienic condition is essential to prevent mould build up in your car, as well as preventing illnesses. Maintaining regular car cleaning is vital, especially after eating. You should always adequately dispose of any trash after eating in your car. Using a portable vacuum cleaner, antimicrobial wipes, and odour-neutralising sprays can also help drivers maintain a clean and safe driving environment.”