How Social Media Created Fake Food Trends Abroad

In the age of digital connectivity, social media has transformed the way we discover, share, and consume food. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have turned meals into viral sensations—sometimes at the expense of authenticity. What begins as an eye-catching post can quickly spiral into a global trend, even if the dish in question bears little resemblance to its real-world counterpart. The result? A proliferation of “fake” food trends abroad, where aesthetics often trump tradition, and cultural dishes are reinvented—or outright misrepresented—for the sake of likes and shares.

The Rise of Instagrammable (But Inauthentic) Dishes

One of the most striking consequences of social media’s influence is the prioritization of visual appeal over taste or cultural accuracy. Rainbow bagels, charcoal-infused foods, and freakshakes—oversized milkshakes piled high with candy and cake—became global sensations not because they tasted exceptional, but because they photographed well. Restaurants and cafes, eager to capitalize on the trend, began crafting dishes specifically for social media virality, sometimes stripping them of their original context.

For example, the Japanese soufflé pancake, known for its fluffy texture, was reimagined in Western countries as an over-the-top dessert loaded with whipped cream, syrup, and sprinkles—far removed from its delicate origins. Similarly, the Korean dalgona coffee trend (popularized by Squid Game) saw people mixing instant coffee with sugar to create a frothy topping, but many overlooked its traditional preparation and cultural significance in favor of a quick, photogenic moment.

Cultural Appropriation or Appreciation?

As these trends spread, questions arise about the line between appreciation and appropriation. When a dish is stripped of its history and repackaged as a fleeting trend, does it still honor its roots—or does it become a hollow imitation? Social media accelerates this cycle, as users often engage with food trends without understanding their cultural background.

Take, for instance, the “sushi burrito,” a fusion dish that gained massive popularity online. While creative, it bears little resemblance to traditional sushi and was largely marketed as a novelty rather than an extension of Japanese cuisine. Critics argue that such trends dilute the authenticity of cultural foods, turning them into gimmicks rather than respected culinary traditions.

The Algorithm’s Role in Shaping Taste

Social media algorithms play a crucial role in perpetuating these trends. Platforms prioritize content that generates high engagement—bright colors, unusual presentations, and hyper-stylized dishes tend to perform better than subtle, traditional meals. As a result, creators and businesses are incentivized to produce increasingly exaggerated versions of food to capture attention.

This phenomenon isn’t limited to one cuisine; it spans across cultures, from “deconstructed” dumplings to neon-hued “unicorn” foods. The more visually striking (and often less authentic) a dish is, the more likely it is to go viral—regardless of whether it represents the cuisine accurately.

Can Authenticity Survive the Social Media Era?

Despite the proliferation of fake food trends, there is hope for balance. Some content creators and chefs are pushing back by using social media to educate audiences about traditional cooking methods and cultural significance. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok now host food historians, home cooks, and chefs who break down the origins of dishes and debunk viral food myths.

Ultimately, social media isn’t inherently good or bad for food culture—it’s a tool that reflects how we choose to engage with it. By seeking out authentic sources and supporting creators who prioritize cultural respect over clout, consumers can help ensure that global cuisines are celebrated, not just commodified.

The next time a dazzling food trend floods your feed, it might be worth asking: Is this real, or just for show?