How a simple cucumber salad became a global sensation

The all-consuming power of TikTok's salad sensation

SHARIFAH SHAHIRAH
SHARIFAH SHAHIRAH
05 Sep 2024 04:10pm
Logan Moffitt, whose TikTok handle @logagm has become synonymous with cucumber salad, has transformed a simple vegetable into a viral sensation. Left image: Source - Illustrated via Canva. Right image: Moffitt via TikTok
Logan Moffitt, whose TikTok handle @logagm has become synonymous with cucumber salad, has transformed a simple vegetable into a viral sensation. Left image: Source - Illustrated via Canva. Right image: Moffitt via TikTok

SHAH ALAM - Logan Moffitt, the TikTok sensation behind the viral cucumber salad trend, has captivated millions with his simple yet addictive recipes.

His signature catchphrase, "Sometimes you need to eat an entire cucumber," has resonated with viewers worldwide, propelling him to stardom.

Since his recipes gained traction, Moffitt has amassed an impressive 6 million followers and gained 262.3 million likes, each eagerly awaiting his next cucumber creation.

The formula for his success is delightfully straightforward yet mesmerisingly effective.

Moffitt has posted around 40 variations of cucumber salad since July, each recipe marked by a consistent method: slicing cucumbers with a mandoline, free-pouring ingredients into a round plastic container, and topping it off with a sprinkling of MSG. His trademark move?

Enjoying his salad straight from the container with metal chopsticks, punctuated by a satisfied “mmm!”

International media outlet Guardian reported that Moffitt's unconventional cucumber antics have captivated the internet, leading to lucrative sponsorship deals.

His unique approach ranging from shaving cucumbers with razor blades to integrating hair masks into his salad routines has turned paid partnerships into something extraordinary.

This includes everything from razor companies to hair care products, blending seamlessly into his cucumber-themed content.

One memorable video featured Moffitt using a razor blade to slice cucumbers instead of his usual mandoline, while another playfully incorporated a leave-in hair mask into his recipe, though it was for personal grooming, not for the salad.

As the trend gains momentum, so does the conversation around cucumber prices.

Guardian reported in Australia, for example, cucumbers are selling for as much as $10.99 a kilogramme, sparking rumours that the cucumber guy might be driving the demand.

Reports have even surfaced claiming that TikTok has contributed to a cucumber shortage in Iceland.

However, experts note that seasonal factors likely play a larger role.

Following the viral success of Moffitt’s cucumber salad, several Malaysian influencers have jumped on the trend.

Among them is content creator Syafikah Hamidun, known for her captivating food content under the handle @ehsapikahlah.

She recently shared a video of herself trying the viral snack, praising the recipe's amazing flavour and its perfectly balanced taste as truly extraordinary.

The trend has also seen a surge in mandoline sales, but the slicer's lack of a finger guard has raised safety concerns.

Inspired by Moffitt, more users have taken up the device, leading some to injuries, including a fitness instructor in Australia.

Moffitt himself has acknowledged the risks, occasionally reminding his followers to use the slicer safely.

Despite these concerns, Moffitt remains a beloved figure in the TikTok food community.

He occasionally addresses safety issues in his videos, promoting the “Dash Safe Slice” mandoline, available via a link in his bio.

Moffitt’s cucumber obsession in the world of viral food trends, stands out as a refreshing twist, blending culinary creativity with a dash of social media savvy.

Whether it's a fleeting fad or the start of a lasting trend, one thing is clear—Moffitt has made cucumbers cool again.