Indonesian man fries tempeh in melted plastic to make it crispier
An Indonesian online personality has sparked outrage and debate across the internet after uploading a TikTok video of himself frying and eating tempeh cooked in melted plastic — all in the name of science.
TikTok creator Edwin Kurniawan Agung conducted the experiment to test a long-standing rumour: that some street food vendors in Southeast Asia might use plastic in hot oil to achieve extra crunch.
Source: Edwin Agung on Tiktok
In the now-viral video posted on 7 May, Edwin first fries a batch of tempeh, a traditional soy-based staple in Indonesia, in regular cooking oil.
Source: Edwin Agung on Tiktok
Then, in a second batch, he melts pieces of plastic — including a disposable cup — directly into the oil before cooking the tempeh.
Source: Edwin Agung on Tiktok
He then tastes both versions, concluding that the plastic-laced tempeh was noticeably crispier.
Source: Edwin Agung on Tiktok
The experiment, though tongue-in-cheek in tone, underscores serious concerns about food safety and unethical cooking practices.
Online reactions: Crunch comes at a cost
While there’s no confirmation of street food vendors actually doing this en masse, Edwin’s experiment has reignited public concern.
Some commenters thanked him for confirming their suspicions about food that’s suspiciously crispy.
Source: Edwin Agung on Tiktok
However, others criticised the stunt itself as irresponsible.
Some users noted that his experiment was unneccessary and raised the concern that he may suffer health consequences from it.
Source: Edwin Agung on Tiktok
In fact, even Edwin himself seems to be aware of the experiment’s dangers — warning viewers against doing the same at home.
Source: Edwin Agung on Tiktok
Health experts have long warned that heating plastic releases toxic chemicals that can cause cancer, hormonal imbalances, affect our metabolic system and other serious conditions.
Also read: School in Thailand under investigation for frying sausage wrapped in plastic
School in Thailand under investigation for frying sausage wrapped in plastic
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Featured image adapted from Edwin Agung on Tiktok.
