Is matcha in? Think again. The green tea powder has made several “Propaganda I’m Not Falling For” lists on TikTok, along with items like skipping breakfast and mocktails.
In a viral TikTok movement, dislikes are no longer just dislikes. They’re now “propaganda,” Gen Z’s new name for trends they never felt compelled to follow. And like many TikTok trends, this one involves food for many.
What is the “Propaganda I’m Not Falling For” trend?
TikTok users have been posting lists containing social norms they don’t enjoy. Paired with videos typically set to “i think about it all the time” by Charli XCX or “Rocket Man” by Elton John, the lists range in length — some have five items, and others have a dozen.
The topics covered vary even more. People discuss lighthearted trends like lengthy skincare routines, Sonny Angels, and the concept of aesthetics. However, some propaganda lists take on important social issues, such as working a 9 to 5 job or judging others.
Still, food is an important part of people’s lives. Everyone has opinions about their meals, so it’s no surprise that nearly every propaganda list contains at least one food-related opinion.
What’s the food propaganda people won’t fall for?
TikTok user @laurentiby included two beverages on her propaganda list: oat milk and mocktails, the latter of which she wrote always cost the same amount as alcoholic drinks. Users commented on their agreement, especially regarding high mocktail prices.
Not all takes result in solidarity, though. When user @alexrose_ put “toasted NYC bagels” on her list, one of the top comments read “with you on everything except toasted bagels.” The inclusion of raw milk, though, was popular among users, with the top comment being “yeah the raw milk trend has never sat right with me.”
One item that appears on several propaganda lists is matcha. Although it’s become a staple in both kitchen pantries and Starbucks, it seems like some people don’t enjoy the drink so much after all.
What about the food propaganda people will fall for?
Or, maybe matcha still has a chance. In response to “Propaganda I’m Not Falling For,” some users have created lists of “Propaganda I Am Falling For.” This is the same trend but with the opposite idea. People list popular items they really do like.
User @isabelwestt provides a list of “propaganda i’m 100% falling for,” which includes matcha along with Addison Rae, and “romanticising everything,” and Dubai chocolate — another divisive food item that some people fall for and others don’t.
Regardless of whether you love or hate matcha or Dubai chocolate, or whether you agree or disagree with people’s opinions, propaganda lists have no doubt generated discussion on TikTok. Personally, I’ll stick to the food side. Those ideas probably take up the most space in my brain.