Food has always been surrounded by myths, legends, and old wives’ tales. Some of these stories have shaped the way we eat, while others are pure fiction. Here’s a look at some of the most famous food myths and their surprising origins.
1. The Five-Second Rule
Myth: Food dropped on the floor is safe to eat if picked up within five seconds.
Origin: This belief may date back to Genghis Khan, who supposedly allowed food to remain on the floor for as long as he deemed appropriate. Modern science, however, proves that bacteria can contaminate food instantly.
2. Carrots Improve Night Vision
Myth: Eating carrots will give you better eyesight, especially in the dark.
Origin: This myth gained popularity during World War II when the British military claimed that pilots had superior night vision due to eating carrots. In reality, this was a clever cover-up to disguise the use of radar technology. While carrots do contain vitamin A, which is essential for eye health, they won’t give you night vision.
3. Coca-Cola Used to Contain Cocaine
Myth: The original Coca-Cola recipe contained cocaine.
Origin: This one is partially true. When Coca-Cola was first created in 1886, it included coca leaf extract, which contained trace amounts of cocaine. By 1929, the company removed the active cocaine compound, though the drink still contained a form of coca leaf extract.
4. Eating Pop Rocks and Soda Will Make Your Stomach Explode
Myth: Mixing Pop Rocks candy with soda causes a deadly reaction.
Origin: This myth likely started in the 1970s when a rumor spread that a child had died from eating Pop Rocks with soda. In reality, Pop Rocks contain carbon dioxide, which creates a fizzing sensation but is completely harmless.
5. Swallowed Gum Stays in Your Stomach for Seven Years
Myth: If you swallow gum, it will take seven years to digest.
Origin: While it’s true that gum doesn’t break down like regular food, it passes through your digestive system just like anything else. The myth likely emerged as a way to discourage children from swallowing gum.
6. Fortune Cookies Are a Chinese Tradition
Myth: Fortune cookies originated in China.
Origin: Fortune cookies were actually invented in the United States, most likely by Japanese-American bakers in California during the early 20th century. They became associated with Chinese cuisine after being served in Chinese restaurants across the U.S.
7. Lobsters Were Once Considered a Poor Man’s Food
Myth: Lobsters were once seen as undesirable and only eaten by the poor.
Origin: This is true. In the 17th and 18th centuries, lobsters were so abundant in North America that they were used as fertilizer and prison food. It wasn’t until the 19th century that they became a delicacy.
Many food myths and legends have surprising origins, often rooted in history, marketing, or misunderstandings. While some myths contain a kernel of truth, others have been debunked by science. Next time you hear a food myth, you might want to dig a little deeper—you may be surprised by the real story behind it.
