When it comes to potlucks, opinions are sharply divided. Some people can’t get enough, while others would rather skip them altogether. Personally, I’m somewhat ambivalent. My family and friends are culinary wizards who put together impressive potluck feasts. I feel safe indulging because I know how meticulous they are about cleanliness and food safety.
However, that comfort doesn’t extend to work lunches, church gatherings, or buffets. The thought of consuming food prepared by someone I don’t know makes me uneasy. I mean, have you ever seen those cringe-worthy photos circulating online? One features a cat lounging on a kitchen counter while its owner prepares a meal, and another shows someone mixing potato salad in a filthy sink!
People can be downright disgusting.
Recently, I stumbled upon a humorous article about potlucks that led me to delve into the comment section on social media. It solidified my resolve to be extremely selective about the dishes I choose to sample. The stories people shared were nothing short of shocking.
For example, one person recounted a church potluck where someone found an earring in a sandwich platter. Another shared a tale of a woman who brought leftover Thanksgiving turkey to a gathering in mid-December. Seriously?
And then there are the horror stories that made my stomach churn. One friend reminisced about a potluck where a child accidentally vomited in the middle of the gathering, leaving everyone grateful they had skipped dessert.
Not long after reading these tales, I had my own unsettling encounter. My husband and I took our kids to a local fall festival where they were selling cotton candy for a quarter. When we approached the vendor, I noticed his hands were slick with some sort of mysterious goo. To my horror, it was his own saliva! He was licking his fingers and then using those same wet hands to pick up fallen candy pieces. I couldn’t stomach the thought; I quickly tossed the sticky cones in the trash and found some lollipops instead.
If you’re looking for more food-related horror stories, you’ll find plenty out there. Whether it’s potlucks, buffets, or food service, the chances of encountering something cringe-worthy are high. Just ask anyone who has witnessed the chaos at a community meal or a catered event.
And while it may seem that potlucks are the main culprits, let’s not forget that even restaurants can have their moments. I once saw an older gentleman dive into a tray of popcorn shrimp with his bare hands at a buffet. Come on, people! There are utensils for a reason!
I cherish sharing meals with my friends and family, and I don’t plan to completely abandon potlucks. However, after hearing these horror stories, I might just stick to gatherings with people I know. There are simply too many ways that an innocent potluck can turn into a disaster.
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In the end, while potlucks can be fun, they also come with risks. Trust your instincts, and when in doubt, opt for food you know is safe.