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A new viral trend, dubbed the “glowing turmeric” experiment, is sparking growing concern among Egyptian authorities, not for its popularity, but for its potential to endanger both public health and environmental safety.
The trend, widely shared on TikTok and Instagram, shows users mixing turmeric powder with chemical agents to produce a neon-like glow under UV light. While the aesthetic may be appealing, officials warn that many of these reactions involve corrosive or toxic substances, some of which are industrial-grade chemicals unsuited for home use.
In a public statement reported by Al Arabiya, Egypt’s Ministry of Environment warned that the trend could contaminate water systems and disrupt wastewater treatment infrastructure. Improper disposal of these mixtures—often flushed down household sinks or drains—may introduce dangerous chemicals into municipal systems, threatening long-term water quality.
Officials emphasized that in a country already struggling with water scarcity, such digital fads carry risks far greater than they appear on screen.
According to health and safety specialists cited by Al Jazeera, some individuals mimicking the trend have reported skin irritation and respiratory symptoms. Experts stress that the reactions can release noxious fumes or harmful residues, particularly if users mix household chemicals without understanding the consequences.
There’s also concern over how easily such trends bypass moderation filters on platforms like TikTok, leading to mass replication without safety warnings.
What began as a seemingly fun science trick has quickly turned into a source of environmental and public health concern. Egyptian authorities are urging parents, teachers, and influencers to promote responsible content creation, especially when it involves chemicals or experiments with unclear risks.
They are also calling on global social media platforms to take greater responsibility in regulating viral content that may cause harm, particularly when such trends influence minors.
2 min read
