In a shocking move that has taken social media by storm, a Chinese influencer, Kong Yufeng—known as “King Kong Liuke” on Douyin—has ignited fierce controversy by claiming that pig feed is a healthier and more economical alternative to takeaway food. With a substantial follower count of 2.8 million, Kong, a graduate from the renowned Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, posted a video on October 30 revealing her audacious plan to survive on just 3 yuan (approximately 42 cents USD) a day.

Kong's stunt took a dramatic turn as she explained her decision to consume pig feed, driven by a quest for frugality. She spent a mere 100 yuan ($14) on a large sack of what she described as “high-protein, low-fat, and completely natural” pig feed, containing ingredients such as soybeans, corn, peanuts, and added vitamins. In her words, “Isn’t this healthier than takeaway food?” she provocatively asked her audience.

The peculiar diet involved mixing 100 grams of pig feed with warm water for each meal, amounting to a daily cost of just 3 yuan. However, the experience was far from simple; Kong grimaced at the overpowering salty and sour flavor, exclaiming, “I can’t stand it—I need more water!” Despite this, she expressed her intent to endure the diet for a week to explore its viability.

However, her unusual approach has drawn extensive backlash online, amassing over 6 million views on Weibo. Concerned viewers questioned the safety and nutritional value of consuming pig feed—food not designed for human consumption. Comments such as, “How can food meant for pigs meet food safety standards for humans?” flooded the platform, highlighting public skepticism and alarm.

Experts have unequivocally warned against this dangerous trend. A representative from a pig feed company clarified that while the feed isn’t toxic, it's indigestible for humans and poses severe health risks. Nutritionists echoed this sentiment, cautioning that a diet limited to pig feed could result in critical deficiencies in essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and iodine, leading to malnutrition, exhaustion, and potential bone health issues.

As the uproar swelled, concerns intensified over Kong's influence on her impressionable audience. Many worried that this reckless behavior could inspire young followers to mimic her actions, potentially leading to harmful consequences. One user noted, “What if a child tries to imitate her? The repercussions could be dire.”

In light of the backlash, Kong's video has since been removed from social media, and her account is reportedly no longer searchable, suggesting that authorities may have intervened due to the potential health risks associated with this stunt.

This incident raises a broader dialogue about the ethical responsibilities of influencers, the significance of food safety, and the desperation some will show to save money in an increasingly competitive digital landscape. As Kong intended to showcase resourcefulness, the fallout serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards that come with pushing the envelope in the quest for viral fame.

Will this controversial influencer’s stunt serve as a cautionary tale or inspire others to follow in her footsteps? Only time will tell. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into the implications of her actions and the growing trend of influencer responsibility in today's society.