 You treat yourself to an ice cream cone, only to drop it on the ground. You look around, see if anyone is watching, pick it up and examine it to see if it's still edible. The "5-second rule" says it's OK if we hurry, but did you know scientists have actually studied how safe it is to eat different types of food that have fallen on the floor? And depending on the type of food you dropped, the answer to "is it safe?" can be drastically different. Read our story below to find out more, and then keep reading for delicious Hanukkah ideas, great Cyber Week kitchen deals and a relatable story for anyone who's vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free or eats a special diet.
XO, Kristen
These experts have actually studied the 5-second rule. Here's what's fact vs. fiction. 
Cyber Week deals that are still happening:
Help, I can't eat that! How to respectfully and assertively share your food preferences  It’s the holidays, and your mother-in-law has prepared her signature stuffing recipe. She’s so proud of the dish, but you’re gluten-intolerant. You feel you have two options: Eat the stuffing and suffer all night, or pass it up and feel the low-key rebuke for years to come. But there’s another choice.
Reporter Alexandra Emanuelli spoke to experts for advice on how to respectfully and assertively share your food preferences and limits with family and friends this holiday season. Whether you’re going to your work holiday party or you’re meeting your partner’s family for the first time, these tips and quick scripts have you covered.
The best tools for all your Hanukkah frying  From Dutch ovens to cheesecloth and the right thermometer, these kitchen must-haves will help you make delicious fried food.
How to make sufganiyot, the perfect jelly doughnut for Hanukkah  The legendary Jake Cohen shows how to make this fluffy doughnut filled with bright fruit jelly and showered in powdered sugar.
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