From “Demon Hunters” to Danger: The Hot Noodle Challenge

A new viral trend has captured the attention of children and teens: slurping steaming hot instant noodles. This “instant-noodle challenge”, inspired by mimicking the characters in the film “KPop Demon Hunters,” involves children heating up ramen and rushing to eat it, usually before it cools. While this may seem like harmless fun, instant noodles make up nearly one-third of pediatric scald burn injuries. 

A scald is a burn is caused by contact with hot liquids or steam. An estimated 100,000 children in the United States each year suffer scald burns from food and beverages alone. Most of these burns actually occur in the child’s own home.

Instant noodle packages are designed to be quick and easy to prepare, but the packaging and contents can be deceptive. At 140 degrees Fahrenheit, it takes about three seconds of contact for a second-degree burn to occur. While at the same time boiling liquid at 212 degrees Fahrenheit can cause a deep burn even quicker. Instant noodle cups are prone to tipping and the liquid inside retains heat longer and clings to skin- increasing the risk of severe burns. Additionally, the steam released when opening these containers can cause burns to the face and hands.

What You Can Do

Watch and talk: If your child sees this trend on social media and wants to try it, have a conversation about safety first.

Supervise heating and serving: Ensure adult supervision for young children when hot food is being prepared. Use a stovetop or kettle to boil water, rather than the microwave cups. Encourage eating them in a bowl at the table and not on laps.

Cool before eating: Allow noodles to sit for a minute after preparation to let the steam dissipate and the temperature to lower.

Educate: Teach children the importance of handling hot foods carefully and the potential dangers of steam and hot liquids.

Minor Burn First-Aid

For minor burns or scalds, quick first-aid is crucial to prevent further burns, permanent scarring and damage:

• Remove the child from the liquid or steam causing the burn.
• If able, remove clothing or jewelry from the injury site. If the clothing is stuck to the burned area, cut around the clothing, leaving the burn intact.
• Cool the burn. Hold the area under cool, running water for 10 to 20 minutes. You can also apply a cool, wet washcloth until the pain eases.
• Do not use ice, lotions or oils on burns.
• Cover the burn with a dry, clean, non-stick bandage or cloth.
• Take your child to the emergency room for burns on hands, feet, eyes or groin, or burn area larger than the child’s palm, seek medical attention or call 911.