Social media has been abuzz over a popcorn snack flavored with dry cake mix to make it fluffy, but Kansas State University food scientist Blakeslee is warning of a potential foodborne illness risk. Dry cake mix, like any raw flour product, can carry harmful bacteria since it hasn’t been heated to the 160°F necessary for safe consumption.

Blakeslee points out that raw flour has been linked to E. coli and Salmonella outbreaks, with the U.S. FDA reporting at least 168 cases and 20 hospitalizations in recent years. Most flour brands are not heat-treated during milling, leaving them vulnerable to contamination.

While Fluffy Popcorn can be cooked to 160°F to reduce the risk, this could affect its texture. Blakeslee also advises against eating raw cookie dough, licking beaters, or consuming any uncooked flour-based products, and emphasizes washing hands after handling raw dough to prevent cross-contamination.

Raw flour treats may be tempting for kids, but Blakeslee stresses that children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk.