Comedian Mo Gilligan has revealed his shock after learning that a common ingredient in fried chicken burgers is also used to lubricate condoms. The 38-year-old star makes the discovery in his new Netflix documentary, Big Chicken: A Fast-Food Conspiracy, which premieres on Wednesday, August 5.
During the film, Gilligan investigates the global fried chicken industry, including its history and widespread popularity. He also participates in a grueling experiment, consuming fried chicken three times a day for 28 consecutive days. The experience, he admits, took a significant toll on his body and self-image.
Dimethylpolysiloxane: A Surprising Additive
In one segment of the documentary, Gilligan learns that some fried chicken burgers marketed as healthier alternatives actually contain dimethylpolysiloxane. This silicone polymer, classified as food additive E900, is also found in shampoos, conditioners, and lubricants, including those used in condom production.
“I’ve met a lot of experts over the last couple of days,” Gilligan says in the film. “You know, one of the ingredients, they also put it in condoms for lubrication. Who knew that went into a burger? So many things go into it that are artificially engineered to give you a better experience and get you to come back for more.”
From Dream to Nightmare
Speaking to The Sun, Gilligan admitted that being paid to eat fried chicken might sound like a “dream,” but the reality was closer to a “nightmare.” He expressed concerns about his public image, given his high-profile career.
“Look, I do a job that’s very front-facing and in the public eye. I’d be lying if I said I don’t care about my image, especially if I’m eating fried chicken every day,” he told the publication. “Eating the food was something that I was a bit self-conscious of, but also knowing that in the space of a few days, I went from a large in my T-shirt size to an extra large because of what I’m eating.”
Challenging Stereotypes
On Instagram, Gilligan celebrated the film’s release, noting that it was produced by Mindhouse, the same company behind Louis Theroux: Inside the Manosphere. He emphasized the importance of addressing racial stereotypes associated with fried chicken.
“As a Black British comedian, it was important for me to challenge the stereotypes around Black people and fried chicken, unpack where those ideas came from, and reclaim a dish that’s part of a much bigger story than the one we’ve been told,” he wrote. “I met some incredible people along the way, from historians and farmers to nutrition experts and industry insiders. Every conversation taught me something. This is probably the most exposing thing I’ve ever done, and I can’t wait for you all to see it.”
Impact and Release
The documentary, which runs on Netflix, promises to reveal hidden aspects of the fast-food industry, including the use of additives like dimethylpolysiloxane. Gilligan’s personal experiment highlights the physical effects of a diet high in fried chicken, as he noted his rapid change in clothing size.
Big Chicken: A Fast-Food Conspiracy is set to launch on Wednesday, August 5, on Netflix, offering viewers an inside look at the industry’s practices and Gilligan’s journey.
