A recent viral phenomenon on TikTok has introduced the concept of “human kibble,” a method of meal preparation involving a large mixture of chopped, cooked, and often unseasoned whole foods designed to last for an entire week. The term “kibble,” traditionally associated with pelletized pet food since the early 20th century, has been co-opted to describe this human-centric, one-bowl approach to nutrition. This trend gained significant traction following a January 2025 video by creator @myfoodisme2, who showcased his five-year adherence to a diet comprising unflavored chopped vegetables, chicken breast, tofu, grains, and legumes.

The creator posits that this simple, large-batch concoction, resembling animal feed, effectively fuels his days with whole foods while minimizing mealtime fuss, inspiring numerous users to adopt similar eating patterns. Proponents of human kibble highlight several advantages. @myfoodisme2’s mixture, for instance, boasts 19 whole foods, indicating a strong nutritional foundation. Experts like Emma Laing, PhD, RDN, praise meal patterns that encourage the consumption of vegetables and fiber-rich beans, both often under-consumed in the U.S. Laing suggests that if this trend motivates individuals to incorporate new, nutrient-dense foods into their diets, it could effectively fill nutrient gaps and add variety.

Furthermore, human kibble can be a strategic solution for picky eaters. @myfoodisme2 himself admitted to struggling with vegetable consumption due to taste and texture, a problem remedied by finely chopping and mixing them with other ingredients. Laing concurs, noting that altering vegetable textures and integrating them into other foods can ingeniously “hide” them and boost intake among those with aversions. From a practical standpoint, the consistent large-batch preparation of a single-dish meal significantly reduces the mental energy required for complicated meal planning, as highlighted by Wan Na Chun, MPH, RD, CPT. This predictability can be particularly comforting for individuals with dietary restrictions or food-related anxiety, helping them consistently achieve specific nutritional goals, such as macro ratios or calorie counts.

Despite these potential benefits, dietitians and commenters also raise significant concerns regarding “people kibble.” A primary drawback is the potential for monotony; unlike pets, humans typically crave dietary variety, and consuming the same mixture repeatedly can lead to boredom and dissatisfaction. Chun emphasized that prolonged consumption of identical foods risks not only boredom but also nutrient gaps if meals are not meticulously balanced and varied. To counteract this, Laing advises rotating a diverse range of foods—including whole grains, legumes, seafood, spices, and oils like extra virgin olive oil—with each meal prep to enhance both palatability and nutrient diversity.

Another critical issue revolves around seasoning. The lack of seasoning, such as salt, could lead to electrolyte deficiencies, especially for active individuals who lose minerals through sweat. Chun recommends seasoning with salt or other flavoring blends to prevent such imbalances. Food safety is also a major concern; while the viral video suggests a week’s worth of food from one batch, the USDA strictly advises refrigerating leftovers for no more than four days to mitigate the risk of foodborne illness. Beyond the physiological aspects, the very language used—calling meals “kibble”—can foster an unhealthy, mechanical mindset towards eating, stripping food of its inherent cultural, social, and pleasurable dimensions, as Chun points out.

In conclusion, while preparing human kibble is not inherently dangerous, provided ingredients are cooked to safe temperatures, experts offer caveats. Laing warns that it might not supply sufficient calories for individuals with higher energy demands, such as athletes. She also notes that abrupt dietary changes, including adopting “kibble,” can induce digestive discomfort. Ultimately, while food serves as essential fuel, its role extends far beyond mere sustenance. As Laing eloquently states, “Food is indeed fuel, but it is also a source of culture, connection, and enjoyment.” Consequently, most people find a more varied and flexible approach to eating necessary for both sustained satisfaction and comprehensive nourishment, making the long-term, unvaried consumption of “human kibble” a less appealing and potentially less beneficial option for many.