‘That Sh*t Trash’: 6ix9ine’s Fufu Comment Ignites Cultural Food Debate Online

American rapper 6ix9ine has once again found himself at the center of online controversy, this time not over music or legal troubles, but over food. The outspoken rapper sparked widespread reactions across social media after bluntly describing fufu, a beloved African staple, as “trash” while tasting Nigerian foods for the first time in a video that has since gone viral.

In the now widely shared clip, 6ix9ine is seen seated before a plate of popular Nigerian dishes, guided by a host who carefully explains what each item is and how it is traditionally eaten. The spread included jollof rice, assorted proteins such as chicken, beef and fish, alongside fufu, a dough-like swallow food commonly eaten across West and Central Africa with soups and stews. From the outset, the rapper appeared both curious and amused, laughing frequently as the host instructed him on the cultural etiquette of eating with his hands.

As the demonstration progressed, 6ix9ine attempted to scoop and dip the fufu properly, mixing it with different proteins on the plate. His exaggerated facial expressions and playful commentary suggested a mix of excitement and confusion, a reaction that many viewers found entertaining. However, the tone of the video quickly shifted when the host asked him directly how the fufu tasted. Without hesitation, the rapper replied, “That sh*t trash,” a remark that immediately drew laughter from the host but set off a storm of reactions online.

When pressed further on whether he enjoyed the overall experience, 6ix9ine tried to soften the moment slightly, explaining that while the tasting was “fun,” the flavor of the fufu itself did not impress him. Still laughing, he repeated the phrase “sh*t trash-o,” a casual addition that only fueled the clip’s viral spread. While his comments were delivered jokingly, many viewers felt the wording crossed the line from personal preference into disrespect.

Nigerians on social media were quick to respond, with reactions ranging from outrage to humor. For many, fufu is more than just food; it is a cultural symbol deeply tied to tradition, family meals and communal eating. Critics accused the rapper of being insensitive and dismissive of a dish that holds significant cultural value, especially while being hosted and introduced to it for the first time. Some users pointed out that unfamiliarity with a food does not justify insulting it, while others argued that international guests should approach cultural experiences with more respect.

At the same time, a sizeable number of Nigerians and Africans brushed off the comment, insisting that food taste is subjective and that not everyone is expected to like fufu. Some viewers even joked that fufu itself “doesn’t need validation” from a controversial rapper known for provoking reactions. Others highlighted that Nigerians themselves often debate and criticize different types of swallow foods, from fufu to eba and pounded yam, depending on regional preferences.

Despite his harsh assessment of fufu, 6ix9ine appeared far more receptive to other items on the plate. As he sampled the chicken and beef, he nodded in approval and smiled, suggesting that the proteins were more in line with his palate. This contrast did little to calm the backlash, but it did add nuance to the moment, showing that his reaction was less about rejecting Nigerian food entirely and more about struggling with a specific texture and taste unfamiliar to him.

The incident has since become part of a larger online conversation about cultural exchange, food diplomacy and the expectations placed on celebrities when they engage with cultures outside their own. In recent years, Nigerian cuisine has gained increasing global attention, with jollof rice debates, food tasting videos and celebrity reactions regularly trending online. International artists, influencers and athletes sampling Nigerian dishes often attract massive engagement, as viewers eagerly watch how outsiders respond to flavors and eating styles they consider everyday staples.

This growing trend, while largely positive, has also revealed a recurring tension. While many Nigerians enjoy seeing their food showcased globally, there is often frustration when reactions appear mocking or dismissive. Supporters argue that honest reactions, even negative ones, are part of authentic cultural exchange. Critics, however, maintain that there is a difference between saying something is “not your taste” and labeling it as “trash,” especially when millions are watching.

For 6ix9ine, a figure already known for courting controversy, the moment fits into a familiar pattern. His brand has long thrived on shock value and unfiltered expression, traits that have earned him both loyal fans and harsh critics. Whether intentional or not, his fufu comment ensured that the video gained far more attention than a polite food review ever would have.

As the clip continues to circulate, it has inspired memes, debates and even educational posts explaining what fufu is, how it is traditionally prepared and why it holds such importance across African cultures. Some content creators have seized the opportunity to reintroduce fufu to global audiences, emphasizing that it is typically eaten with soup and that its appeal lies more in texture and pairing than in standalone flavor.

In the end, the viral moment underscores how food, culture and celebrity intersect in the age of social media. A few seconds of candid commentary were enough to ignite a global discussion, reminding audiences that cultural experiences, especially those shared online, can quickly take on meanings far beyond their original intent. Whether seen as disrespectful, humorous or simply honest, 6ix9ine’s fufu remark has once again proven that Nigerian food, like Nigerian culture itself, is powerful enough to command attention and spark conversation worldwide.