Is It Gross to Blow out Birthday Candles

The video explores the tradition of blowing out birthday candles and its potential health risks. A study by Clemson University scientists investigated the bacteria transfer from blowing on cakes. They found that blown-on icing had significantly more bacteria than untouched cake, though the health risk remains low unless the blower is sick. The video suggests using common sense and being cautious if the blower is ill.

What was the main question the scientists at Clemson University wanted to answer?

• How gross it is to blow out birthday candles

• How to make birthday cakes more delicious

• The history of birthday cake traditions

• The best way to light birthday candles

What did the researchers use to simulate a birthday cake in their experiment?

• A digital image of a cake

• A cardboard cutout of a cake

• A Styrofoam cake with icing

• A real cake with candles

How much more bacteria was found on the icing after blowing out the candles compared to untouched cake?

• 20 times more

• 10 times more

• 5 times more

• 15 times more

What is a potential risk if the person blowing out the candles is sick?

• The cake might taste bad

• The candles might not blow out

• The spread of airborne illnesses

• The cake might fall apart

What is a suggested precaution if you are concerned about germs when blowing out candles?

• Use a fan to blow out the candles

• Skip the cake entirely

• Use a different type of icing

• Remove the candles and blow them out individually