Introduction

The phenomenon of illiterate cooks uploading food hack videos on social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram is a curious one. Why do people who clearly do not know how to cook continue creating and sharing these content? This article explores the reasons behind the trend, examining both the allure of traffic and the desire to share newfound knowledge. Additionally, it touches on the challenges these cooks face and suggests potential countermeasures.

Reasons Behind the Trend

1. Attraction of Traffic and Money

Many individuals are drawn to the trend due to the sheer allure of traffic. Social media algorithms ensure that similar content is shown to users, creating a self-perpetuating cycle known as the information cocoon. This cocoon is a phenomenon where users are exposed only to information and content from those with similar views, making it easier to generate and retain an audience.

2. Monetization Potential

Beyond the joy of creating content, monetization is a significant driving force. Creating and sharing engaging videos can lead to revenue through advertisements, sponsorships, and donations. The more followers one has, the greater the potential for financial gain. The contribution of a single content creator to the overall traffic can significantly impact their earnings.

The Challenges and Consequences

The videos often feature amateur cooks attempting complex or misleading “hacks,” which may or may not work as advertised. These attempts can generate even more attention when the results are disappointing or even disastrous. A notable example is Kays, a YouTuber known for her cooking failure videos. She has a dedicated following, likely due to the unexpected and comical nature of her mishaps. Despite her lack of culinary skills, Kays persists in sharing her experiences, driven by the financial incentives provided by her audience and her content platform.

Countermeasures and Opportunities

1. Disproving Inaccuracies

To counter the trend of misleading food hacks, content creators can make a channel dedicated to debunking and disproving these inaccuracies. This approach not only provides value to the audience but also has the potential to go viral, becoming a new form of viral content. By demonstrating the correct methods and techniques, these creators can educate and inspire viewers to pursue more accurate and reliable cooking skills.

2. Engagement and Authenticity

Another effective strategy is to focus on engagement and authenticity. By showing the behind-the-scenes, including the learning process and genuine failures, content creators can build a connection with their audience. This approach not only adds a layer of relatability but also encourages followers to seek out more accurate and helpful content.

Conclusion

While the trend of uploading food hacks by illiterate cooks is driven by a combination of traffic attraction and monetization, it also poses challenges and opportunities. By understanding these dynamics, content creators can develop strategies to counter the misinformation and promote accurate cooking skills. Ultimately, the goal should be to provide value to the audience and contribute positively to the culinary community.