What Is the Tide Pod Challenge – and Why Is It Being Banned?

Graham Pierrepoint

Some memes grow beyond all comprehension, and as long as the internet continues to allow us to share jokes and respond to various news stories and trends in such an open manner, some jokes and crazes will continue to take on a life of their own. Right now, one of the most prevalent viral crazes involve Tide Pods – laundry detergent capsules – which, while perhaps more than a little mundane on paper, is shaping up to be one of the most dangerous viral trends in recent history. Full disclaimer from One News Page – don’t try this one at home – as YouTube, too, have pulled videos regarding ‘Tide Pod Challenges’ from its platform in attempt to keep young users safe.

Watch: Dangers of the 'Tide Pod Challenge’ ▶

What exactly does the ‘challenge’ entail? Remember the stark warnings that come attached to certain laundry products – that advise you to avoid consuming liquid pods wherever possible? You’re just about to fill in the blanks – as young YouTubers and social media users have reportedly been filming themselves eating laundry pods manufactured by Tide in what’s been referred to as the latest challenge craze. The particular challenge here, however, is surviving – as the consumption of laundry detergent, pods, capsules or otherwise, can prove to be fatal.

As a result, YouTube has immediately removed all videos regarding the ‘Tide Pod Challenge’ and will be policing the trend going forward – in an effect to prevent bodily harm and even potential death as a result of the stunt. While the idea of consuming Tide Pods may have taken on a bizarre memetic status as of late, the challenge is a dangerous activity on a whole new level – as the potential poisoning of viewers and those actively participating in videos is becoming more and more legitimized.

Watch: YouTube Cracks Down On Tide Pod Challenge ▶

There’s been plenty of challenges that have come and gone over the years – the cinnamon challenge and the bath salts challenge, for two – all pretty daft and none really advisable at all – but will the Tide Pod craze end them all? Perhaps – though if YouTube has anything to do with it, we won’t be seeing anyone putting their lives at risk in such a way ever again. If you do take parts in any challenges online this year – avoid chewing a laundry capsule if you can – and we genuinely mean this! Will 2018 be marked as the year kids gargled detergent for fun? Let’s hope not.