Sourdough Starters: China's Gen Z's Unexpected New Pet Craze

Chinese Gen Z's Unexpected Pet Trend: Sourdough Starters The internet is buzzing about a surprising new pet trend emerging among young people in China: keeping sourdough starters. This isn't your average goldfish or hamster; these are living cultures of yeast and bacteria, carefully nurtured to produce delicious bread. One video, uploaded by Dr. Candise, a Mandarin tutor, explains the phenomenon. "This has actually been around for ages," she states, "but younger generations have rediscovered it." The video shows the simple process of maintaining the starter, feeding it flour and water daily. Viewers have reacted with a mix of amusement and disbelief, with comments ranging from "How is gluten a pet?" to "This is its rebellious teenage form." The trend highlights a unique blend of culinary tradition and modern internet culture in China, demonstrating the unexpected ways that simple things can become viral sensations.