A new nutrition trend is taking TikTok by storm, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Dubbed “human kibble,” this meal prep approach involves combining a large variety of finely chopped foods into a single bowl, sparking both intrigue and skepticism online.

The trend gained traction after a content creator posted a video showcasing their “human kibble” recipe, which includes 19 finely chopped foods such as vegetables, chicken breast, tofu, grains, and legumes.The mixture is then cooked and stored in a large bowl for consumption throughout the week.

The Appeal of “Human Kibble”

For some, the appeal lies in its simplicity and potential for increased vegetable intake. One commenter wrote, I’ve been wondering how to eat more veggies and turns out I can just put them all in a bowl and cook them. Who knew? Another added,I was just complaining the other day that I wish people kibble existed because I’m sick of trying to figure out what to eat,this is pretty dang close! I’m tempted to try,but with a lot of spices. Some even express outright enthusiasm, with one person raving, I am a HUGE fan of whatever this is.

The concept of simplifying meal prep and ensuring consistent nutrient consumption resonates with those seeking a more structured approach to their diet.

The Concerns and Criticisms

however, not everyone is convinced. Some viewers find the concept unappetizing, with one commenting, This is almost exactly what I make for my dogs. Others question the overall lifestyle implications, with one viewer quipping, Why do I feel like he’s the kind of guy that would suggest running a half marathon to cure a hangover.

The potential for boredom, nutrient gaps, and a rigid food mindset are among the primary concerns raised by experts.

Expert Opinion: Benefits and Drawbacks

Registered dietitian Gisela Bouvier weighed in on the trend, stating, I believe that nourishment encompasses both nutritional adequacy and food enjoyment. She acknowledges the potential benefits of large-batch meal prepping, noting that it helps them make more mindful and nutritious choices.

Potential Benefits:

• Simplified Meal Prep: Streamlines grocery shopping and cooking processes.
• Increased Vegetable Intake: Makes vegetables more palatable, possibly increasing fiber and nutrient intake.
• Consistent Nutrient Consumption: provides a balance of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Boredom: Consuming the same meal repeatedly can decrease satisfaction and adherence.
• Nutrient Gaps: Lack of variety may result in missing out on certain nutrients. Foods such as nuts, seeds, potatoes, fruit, avocados and dairy are missing to name a few. Additionally, herbs and spices can also add flavor and nutrition.
• Mechanical Eating: Finely chopping and mixing food may indicate a lack of mindful eating.
• Rigid Food Mindset: Over-identification with food choices can be detrimental. The creator in the video’s handle is ‘myfoodisme.’ It is his way of associating himself with the saying ‘You are what you eat.’ However, we are so much more than what we eat, Bouvier said.
• Social Limitations: Strict dietary regimens may compromise social experiences at events and gatherings. If this creator truly has solely eaten this way all day, everyday for 5 years, then he has likely missed out or compromised his experience at social events, holidays or gatherings because he likely doesn’t eat or bring his food with him in order to maintain his strict dietary regimen, she said.

Recommendations for Trying “Human Kibble”

If you’re considering attempting your own version of “human kibble,” Bouvier recommends incorporating variety by rotating different vegetables,proteins and grains to ensure a broader nutritional profile, adding herbs and spices,and listening to your body’s hunger cues.

Ultimately, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced perspective and prioritize enjoyment in your eating habits. Ultimately, while the ‘human kibble’ approach may offer convenience and structure for a short while, it’s essential to remember that food creates memories, traditions and experiences, Bouvier said.If our diet is so rigid that it impacts life’s moments negatively, it is indeed likely not the diet for you.