A viral video of rats crawling over fried food at an Indian street food stall sparked outrage on social media, with several netizens raising concerns about hygiene. However, it turned out that the footage was AI-generated.
The digitally manipulated video, created by an AI content creator known as 'AI Wala Foodie' on Instagram, was part of a series of similar sensationalist posts which distort reality to gain engagement on social media.
Have a look at it here:
The now-debunked video, which showed rodents infesting popular Indian street snacks like kachoris and puris, was initially perceived as a genuine hygiene violation by social media users.
Contrary to the disturbing clip, the original video, shows the same food stall, having a clean and hygienic environment, with no signs of rats around. The manipulated video was being circulated with no disclaimers, misleading viewers into believing it was real.
Have a look at the original clip here:
Reacting to the video, several netizens pointed out the unhygienic condition in which the food was being prepared. "Hygiene illegal in India," wrote one user. "Stop eating Indian food," commented another.
Have a look at some other other reactions here:
Instagram Screengrab
Instagram Screengrab
Instagram Screengrab
The manipulated video portrayed India's street food in a negative and stereotypical manner, reinforcing harmful clichés about the hygiene and cleanliness in the community.
