Viral Jolly Rancher TikTok Recipe Leaves Boy with Severe Burns: Here’s a Doctor’s Warning

A Pittsburgh-area mother says she just wants to go back in time and not watch a viral TikTok video that ended with her 9-year-old son in the hospital with severe burns. What started as a fun bonding activity to make “candy grapes” ended with a trip to West Penn Hospital for Christina Blackstone and her son, Caidan.

What are candy grapes?

A trendy video on TikTok shows how to make “candy grapes” by coating grapes with melted Jolly Ranchers. While this recipe has gained popularity, it has also led to severe burns for some individuals who attempted to recreate it.

Caidan Blackstone from Uniontown suffered burns on his hand after molten Jolly Ranchers spilled onto his skin. His mother, Christina, tried to remove the sticky candy but was unable to prevent the damage.

Doctor’s Warning

Dr. Ariel Aballay, the director of West Penn Hospital’s burn unit, has spoken out against the TikTok trend that has caused harm to several individuals. He emphasized the dangers of working with molten candy, which can reach temperatures of up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

According to Dr. Aballay, the burns from this viral recipe can be severe and may require skin grafting and cause nerve damage. He advised caregivers to avoid using ice on burns and instead recommended cooling the affected area with lukewarm water.

Christina Blackstone shared her regret over the incident, expressing how a harmless activity turned into a traumatic experience for her son. Caidan continues to undergo hand exercise rehab to regain full functionality.

Takeaway

Parents and caregivers are urged to exercise caution when attempting viral recipes or challenges, especially those involving hot substances. In case of burns, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly and follow the advice of healthcare professionals.

As the popularity of social media platforms like TikTok continues to grow, it is important to prioritize safety and awareness when participating in online trends. Let this incident serve as a reminder to prioritize safety and well-being above social media trends.

By following proper safety protocols and being aware of the risks involved, individuals can enjoy social media trends while prioritizing their health and safety.