Andy had always been a bit hesitant about trying sushi. The idea of raw fish was foreign to his palate, but he was determined to step outside his culinary comfort zone. When his friends suggested a sushi night, he cautiously agreed. He watched them expertly navigate the various rolls and sauces, feeling slightly overwhelmed by the unfamiliar presentation.
A colorful platter arrived, a vibrant display of seaweed-wrapped rice, glistening fish, and bright garnishes. Andy tentatively picked up a piece of what looked like a simple roll. It was nestled amongst some vibrant green “grass,” which he assumed was some kind of edible decoration. Trying to emulate his friends, he popped the entire piece into his mouth, green “grass” and all.
The texture was…unexpected. It was stiff and slightly chewy, not at all like any vegetable he had ever tasted. A strange, vaguely plastic-y flavor filled his mouth. He chewed thoughtfully for a moment, a look of confusion spreading across his face. His friends, noticing his perplexed expression, asked if everything was alright. Andy, pointing to the remaining green strands on the platter, mumbled, “This…grass…it’s a bit tough.” His friends burst into laughter, explaining that the vibrant green “grass” was actually plastic, used for decorative purposes only! Andy’s first sushi experience was certainly memorable, albeit for all the wrong reasons. He eventually managed to navigate the actual sushi, but the image of him chomping down on plastic grass remained a source of much amusement for his friends.
