A recent viral TikTok video has introduced a new food trend—“human kibble.” This dish consists of a large mix of chopped, cooked, and unseasoned whole foods, meant to last for the entire week. While it may sound unappealing at first, the idea of “human kibble” has sparked interest due to its simplicity and nutritional value.

But before you grab the bowl and start meal prepping, dietitians are offering their perspectives on the pros and cons of adopting this trend.

The Advantages of Human Kibble

The concept of human kibble is rooted in practicality. As demonstrated in the viral TikTok video by creator @myfoodisme2, the dish consists of a combination of vegetables, chicken breast, tofu, grains, and legumes. With 19 whole foods, it offers a variety of nutrients essential for a balanced diet.

According to Emma Laing, PhD, RDN, and a national spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, meal patterns like this can be beneficial for incorporating under-consumed foods such as vegetables and beans. "This could be a good way to add variety to one’s diet and fill nutritional gaps," she said.

For people who have difficulty eating certain foods, like vegetables, chopping them finely and mixing them with other ingredients may be a clever solution. This approach can help picky eaters increase their intake of essential nutrients without struggling with the taste or texture of vegetables.

Moreover, meal prepping a large batch of one-dish meals like this can reduce the stress of meal planning. According to Wan Na Chun, MPH, RD, and owner of One Pot Wellness, this routine can save both mental energy and time, especially for those who struggle with complicated meal preparation.

The Pitfalls of Human Kibble

Despite its convenience and potential nutritional benefits, human kibble isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. For many, the idea of eating the same mixture every day may become monotonous, and it could lead to flavor fatigue.

To avoid this, Laing recommends rotating ingredients during meal prep. Adding variety with different grains, legumes, spices, and healthy fats (like extra virgin olive oil) can enhance both flavor and nutritional value.

Another concern is the lack of seasoning. Many people enjoy the taste of food enhanced by seasonings, but with human kibble, the lack of flavoring may result in an imbalance of nutrients. Sodium, an essential mineral lost through sweat, may be inadequate without seasoning. Chun emphasizes that active individuals need enough sodium in their diet to prevent electrolyte deficiencies, and seasoning your kibble could help with this.

Additionally, the practicality of storing such large quantities of food for the entire week can raise food safety concerns. While the dish may appear to last, the USDA recommends keeping leftovers refrigerated for no more than four days to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.

Finally, adopting a "kibble" mindset could shift how we view food. Chun points out that referring to meals as "kibble" can make eating feel mechanical, stripping away the cultural, social, and emotional joy we typically associate with food. Food is more than just fuel—it’s an experience.

Should You Try Human Kibble?

Incorporating human kibble into your diet isn’t dangerous if you follow safe food preparation practices. However, dietitians caution that it might not be suitable for everyone. People with higher energy requirements, such as athletes, may not find this diet enough to meet their needs.

Suddenly switching to a highly repetitive eating pattern could also cause digestive discomfort, so it’s important to ease into the change gradually.

At the end of the day, food is more than just nourishment. “Food is fuel, but it’s also a source of culture, connection, and enjoyment,” says Laing. While some individuals may thrive on simple, consistent meals, most people find that a more varied approach is necessary to feel both satisfied and nourished.