Inside TikTok’s new viral trend: Food-themed male archetypes

On the internet, there is a trend of describing men using food names. Many social media users have no idea what the specific names mean. Peanut Butter, Vanilla, Granola or Soy boy? Which type of guy is your partner?

TikTok, previously known as Music.ly, is a social media platform that has gained enormous popularity worldwide in a short time. The app allows users to create, share, and watch videos.

Previously, TikTok users mainly danced to popular songs. Nowadays, the content on the platform is much more diverse. You can find funny videos, commentary content, daily vlogs, trends, challenges, and much more. The content published on TikTok spreads across the internet at a dizzying speed. A new trend has emerged on the app. Who are Peanut Butter, Vanilla, Granola or Soy Boy?

Peanut Butter Boy originates from the adult cartoon series "BoJack Horseman." In the 2014 animated series, one of the main roles was played by a dog named Mr. Peanutbutter. The character seems positive and friendly on the surface but is immature and superficial. In one of the episodes, the character cheated on his girlfriend, who was much younger than him. Throughout the series, we observe that his broad smile is just a façade to keep up the appearance of a perfect life. Most things he does are for applause.

Granola Boy is the complete opposite of Peanut Butter Boy. This type of man is highly desired and described as ideal. Many swoons over tall brunettes with athletic builds. TikTok users suggest he might have a dad-style moustache. Additionally, he should follow fashion trends—oversized shirts, sweaters, or hoodies, preferably bought from a second-hand shop, are his thing. His interests include all outdoor sports, and when it comes to diet, it's strictly plant-based.

Vanilla Boy, on the other hand, is the quintessential traditionalist. The man ensures harmony in the relationship and is good to his significant other, but nothing beyond that. He is ordinary, stable, and never deviates from the norm. He aims to create a model and textbook relationship without room for spontaneity. For some, he will be the perfect husband candidate, while for others, he will be put off by boredom.

It was once believed that soy influences masculinity levels in men. Consuming products like soy milk or tofu feminises them. Although no scientific evidence supports this claim, the internet has coined the term Soy boy. This term describes men who lack stereotypically masculine traits. This type of guy is very gentle, emotional, and sensitive in relationships.