When Pokémon Violet was released as part of the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet duology, players were greeted with a rich, open-world adventure set in the Paldea region — a vibrant landscape inspired by the Iberian Peninsula. Alongside new Pokémon, the Terastallization mechanic, and the thrilling adventure of becoming a Pokémon Champion, players also encountered an unexpected culinary curiosity: the notoriously inedible “Terrible Twists.”
For trainers obsessed with collecting, battling, and exploring every nook and cranny of Paldea, discovering the secret food in Pokémon Violet has become a cultural phenomenon — not because it tastes good, but because of its bizarre backstory and legendary status among fans. This article dives deep into the mystery, lore, and gameplay impact of the so-called “secret food” in Pokémon Violet: Terrible Twists.
The Origin of Terrible Twists in Pokémon Violet
First appearing in the KitKrop snack shop in Mesagoza, capital city of the Paldea region, Terrible Twists are marketed as a “twisted treat that will twist your tastebuds into submission.” However, their true reputation comes not from fans, but from in-game characters — and the sheer dread they inspire.
Terrible Twists are manufactured by KitKrop, a fictional snack company within the game that parodies real-world junk food brands. While other snacks like Max Mushrooms or Rare Candies serve functional game purposes, Terrible Twists stand out for their lack of utility — except for one crucial role: they’re the secret food that nobody wanted… but everyone talks about.
KitKrop: The Brand Behind the Bizarre Snack
KitKrop is a recurring element in the Scarlet and Violet games, with vending machines scattered across the Paldea region. These machines offer various consumables, including:
- Max Mushrooms (restores HP and cures status in battle)
- Energy Items (boosting effort values)
- Rare Candies (level up a Pokémon)
- Beverages and energy drinks (restoration items)
- And, of course, Terrible Twists
Among these options, Terrible Twists are the only consumable that offers no practical benefit. Consuming one results in a humorous animation where the player character recoils in disgust, often followed by dialogue affirming its revolting flavor.
KitKrop’s Marketing Genius
Despite their awful taste, Terrible Twists are widely available and even heavily advertised in-game. Billboards, vending machine labels, and NPC dialogue all suggest that KitKrop is attempting to turn the snack into a cultural icon — much like how real-world brands sometimes launch deliberately outrageous products to generate buzz.
The in-game posters for Terrible Twists use slogans like:
- “So bad, it’s good!”
- “The snack that dares you to taste!”
- “Twist your senses — if you dare!”
This meta-humor is part of what makes Terrible Twists so intriguing — they are not just a joke item, but a commentary on fad foods and marketing tactics in modern pop culture.
Is There a Functional Purpose? The Role of Terrible Twists in Gameplay
At first glance, Terrible Twists appear to be nothing more than a gag item — but fans have spent countless hours analyzing whether they hold any hidden gameplay mechanics or serve an esoteric purpose.
So far, research and widespread testing among the Pokémon community have confirmed that Terrible Twists have no effect in battle or on Pokémon stats. Unlike other snack items that can heal or boost experience, Terrible Twists simply exist as a flavor text element (quite literally).
Collection and Completionism
One reason players seek out Terrible Twists is for completionist purposes. The Pokémon Scarlet and Violet games feature a “Sandwich” mechanic in which players combine ingredients to create flavorful and powerful buff-giving meals. While Terrible Twists aren’t ingredients in any official sandwiches, collecting every possible item in the game — including every KitKrop product — is a goal for dedicated trainers.
Pokédex of Snacks? Not Quite, But Symbolic
While the game does not officially track snack collection like it does Pokémon, many players keep personal records of the consumables they’ve found. The rarity and reputation of Terrible Twists make them a prized — or infamous — addition to any trainer’s inventory log.
The “Secret” Status: Why Is It Considered Secret?
Despite being widely available in vending machines, Terrible Twists are often referred to as the “secret food” in Pokémon Violet. But why?
There are several reasons this label has stuck:
1. Word-of-Mouth and In-Game Commentary
Numerous NPCs throughout Paldea mention Terrible Twists with a mix of horror and fascination. Some say they heard it made a Gym Leader cry. Others claim it’s “banned in eight regions.” These exaggerated rumors contribute to the air of mystery.
For example, in a conversation near a KitKrop machine, a student says:
“I heard someone tried to feed a Terrible Twist to a Corviknight. The Corviknight dropped the snack, then filed a complaint with the Trainer’s Guild!”
These humorous anecdotes give the snack an urban legend status, making players curious to try it themselves — not to enjoy it, but to experience the infamous reaction.
2. Gameplay Obscurity
While Max Mushrooms and Rare Candies are essential grind tools, Terrible Twists are easy to overlook. New players rarely encounter them unless they buy everything from KitKrop machines. Their existence isn’t explained in tutorials, and there’s no questline that leads you to them.
This obscurity adds to their charm. They’re not hidden in a cave or guarded by Legendary Pokémon — they’re hiding in plain sight, waiting for an adventurous trainer to take a bite.
3. Internet Lore and Meme Culture
After release, the Pokémon community on Reddit, YouTube, and Twitter exploded with jokes about Terrible Twists. Videos titled “I Fed My Entire Party Terrible Twists” and “Terrible Twists Taste Test (In-Game)” racked up hundreds of thousands of views.
This social media attention elevated the snack’s status from a background joke to a cultural milestone in Pokémon history. Terrible Twists became more than a consumable — they became a shared experience among fans.
Can Terrible Twists Be Used Strategically?
One of the biggest fan theories surrounding Terrible Twists is whether they could have a hidden battle mechanic — such as inducing status conditions on the opponent or lowering enemy stats.
Extensive testing has proven this to be false. Consuming a Terrible Twist:
- Does not affect your Pokémon’s stats
- Does not cause any status ailment
- Cannot be used during battle
- Grants no EXP, EVs, or buffs
However, in a surprising twist (pun intended), Terrible Twists are technically usable on your Pokémon — but they have no effect. This makes them unique among inedible items, which are often blocked from being used on Pokémon.
This “pseudo-use” might have been a developer joke — letting players subject their Pokémon to the horror of the snack, just for laughs.
A Psychological Strategy?
While not a real mechanic, some players have leaned into the roleplay aspect. For instance, naming a Pokémon “Twist Tester” or building a “Terrible Taste” themed team where members have held Terrible Twists (even if ineffective) has become a niche trend. The humor and irony make it a fun way to personalize your adventure.
Comparing Terrible Twists to Other Notorious Pokémon Foods
The Pokémon series has a long history of joke items and strange consumables. Terrible Twists are not the first — but they may be the most memorable.
1. Blue Apricorn and the Apricorn Balls
In Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal, Apricorns were used to craft Poké Balls. Some colors, like Blue or Pink, had regional lore, but none had in-game tasting effects. Terrible Twists stand out by incorporating player reaction animation, making the joke more immersive.
2. Casteliacone in Pokémon Black and White
Sold in Castelia City, Casteliacone is a popular in-game treat based on soft-serve ice cream. Unlike Terrible Twists, it has no functional use — but NPCs love it. The contrast is striking: while Casteliacone is celebrated, Terrible Twists are reviled, showcasing how humor can be built around both positive and negative reactions.
3. Lum Berries and Poffins
Items like Lum Berries or Poffins (introduced in Diamond and Pearl) have clear gameplay functions. Poffins boosted Pokémon Contest stats, and Berries could cure status. Terrible Twists break this mold by offering zero utility — their purpose is purely comedic and narrative.
Cultural Impact: Why Terrible Twists Matter Beyond the Game
Terrible Twists represent a shift in how Pokémon games incorporate humor and metagaming. Unlike earlier entries, which often kept joke elements subtle, Scarlet and Violet embrace absurdity and modern internet culture.
A Reflection of Real-World Food Trends
Terrible Twists satirize the rise of extreme or novelty foods — think spicy chip challenges, black-colored sodas, or ghost pepper candy. These real-world items often serve more as social media stunts than enjoyable snacks. By mirroring this phenomenon, Terrible Twists feel surprisingly relevant to today’s audiences.
Community Building Through Shared Humor
The snack has become a shared experience among Pokémon fans. Whether players post their character’s disgusted reaction, create in-jokes in fan fiction, or design Terrible Twists merchandise, the item has transcended its in-game purpose.
In fact, fan artists have created their own versions of the packaging, and TikTok users have even attempted real-life recreations — with predictably poor (but hilarious) results.
Locating Terrible Twists: A Trainers’ Guide
For those determined to add this infamous delicacy to their inventory, here’s where to find it:
Vending Machines in Mesagoza
The most reliable place to purchase Terrible Twists is from KitKrop vending machines located in and around Mesagoza — particularly:
- Outside the Pokémon Academy
- In the shopping district near the restaurant row
- Near the train station
Each vending machine randomly stocks different items. Terrible Twists are not guaranteed, but repeated purchases often yield one after several tries.
Price and Availability
Terrible Twists cost between 200–300 Poké Dollars, depending on the machine and region. Unlike rare candies or TMs, they cannot be sold back to shops, so keep that in mind when stockpiling.
KitKrop Stores in Major Cities
While vending machines are scattered throughout Paldea, larger KitKrop convenience stores in cities like Cascarrafa, Albion, and Levincia also carry limited snack stock. Although Terrible Twists are not always available, they appear more frequently in stores with full shelves.
Are There Any Rewards for Collecting Terrible Twists?
As of now, there are no official rewards for collecting or consuming Terrible Twists. No NPC gives you a badge, no Pokémon evolves from eating one, and no secret cutscene is triggered.
However, that hasn’t stopped players from creating their own side quests. Popular community challenges include:
- “Feed a Terrible Twist to every Pokémon in your party”
- “Take a screenshot every time your character reacts to eating one”
- “Name your team after failed snack products”
These fan-driven activities demonstrate that while Terrible Twists may lack official recognition, they’ve become a cornerstone of player creativity.
The Future of Secret Foods in Pokémon Games
With Terrible Twists gaining such popularity, it’s likely that future Pokémon games will incorporate similar joke items. Game Freak may have stumbled upon a new way to deepen player engagement — not through utility, but through shared humor and memorable quirks.
Potential for Comebacks or Sequels
Given the open-ended nature of Scarlet and Violet’s post-game content and DLC (like The Teal Mask and The Indigo Disk), there’s speculation about whether Terrible Twists could return with new mechanics. Could a future event allow trainers to redeem 100 Terrible Twists for a special title or cosmetic item?
While unconfirmed, such features are not unheard of in gaming — and would delight fans who’ve embraced the absurdity.
Conclusion: The Secret Food That Tastes Like Regret
So, what is the secret food in Pokémon Violet? The answer is Terrible Twists — a snack so notoriously revolting, it’s become legendary. Though it offers no tangible benefits, its cultural significance, humor, and integration into fan communities make it one of the most talked-about items in the game.
It’s not secret because it’s hard to find — it’s secret because players discover it through curiosity, rumor, and a little courage (or foolishness). It’s a testament to the evolving nature of the Pokémon franchise: willing to embrace silliness, modern culture, and the joy of absurdity.
So next time you see a KitKrop machine, consider taking a bite — not for power, not for progress, but for the story you’ll tell afterward.
Whether you’re a completionist, a lore enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good in-game joke, Terrible Twists represent more than just a bad snack. They represent a moment of playful connection between players, developers, and the ever-expanding world of Pokémon. And in a game filled with Legendary beasts, secret caves, and Tera Raids, sometimes the most unforgettable experiences come not from power, but from a poorly designed twist of mystery and flavor.
What is the Secret Food in Pokémon Violet known as Terrible Twists?
The Secret Food in Pokémon Violet known as Terrible Twists is a fictional snack item that appears within the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet games. Terrible Twists are described as unnaturally curly, spiral-shaped treats with a reputation for their bizarre and unpleasant flavor, which is said to be so bad it’s almost unbearable. Despite this, they are collectible and sought after by certain NPCs and players for completionist goals. The snack is part of a broader range of whimsical food items found throughout the Paldea region, each tied to different in-game locations, events, and characters.
Terrible Twists were introduced as both a quirky flavor element and a nod to the creative humor in the Pokémon franchise. They do not provide any direct gameplay benefits such as healing or stat boosts, but they play a minor role in side quests and flavor text. Players can obtain them through specific interactions, often involving NPCs with eccentric tastes. The snack has also become a topic of fascination in fan communities due to its absurd name and the mystery surrounding its origin and ingredients, which the in-game lore intentionally leaves vague.
Where can players find Terrible Twists in Pokémon Violet?
Terrible Twists can be obtained by interacting with specific non-player characters (NPCs) scattered throughout the Paldea region, particularly in areas tied to food or culinary themes. One common method is completing a quest for a character in a café or restaurant who is seeking novelty snacks. These quests are usually part of optional side stories or delivery challenges that don’t appear on the main quest log. Players may need to explore remote towns, interact with shopkeepers, or complete mini-games to acquire these peculiar treats.
Another way to obtain Terrible Twists is through the Let’s Go feature when exploring with certain Pokémon, where they may discover hidden items for you. Though rare, using Pokémon with high obedience levels in specific areas like forests, coastal paths or near food stalls increases the chance of collecting such unique snacks. It’s important to talk to every NPC in food-related establishments, as some will offer Terrible Twists in exchange for other in-game items or as a reward for helping them with their daily routines.
Do Terrible Twists have any practical use in Pokémon Violet?
Terrible Twists do not offer any direct stat-boosting effects, combat advantages, or healing properties in Pokémon Violet, distinguishing them from other consumable items like Potions or Berries. Their primary function lies in flavor and world-building, enriching the immersive experience of exploring Paldea’s culture and culinary oddities. They serve as collectible curiosity items that contribute to in-game achievements or completion percentages, appealing to players who enjoy full exploration and story engagement.
However, Terrible Twists do play a role in minor quests and NPC interactions. Some characters, especially those with eccentric personalities, request them as part of delivery missions or trade offers. Successfully completing these small tasks can reward players with items such as Poké Balls, TMs, or even unique accessories. While not essential for progression, collecting Terrible Twists adds depth to the game’s narrative charm and encourages players to engage with the game world beyond battling and training.
Why is it called Terrible Twists in Pokémon Violet?
The name “Terrible Twists” reflects both the visual design and the in-game reputation of the snack as something uniquely unpalatable. The “Twists” part of the name refers to its corkscrew-like, spiraled shape, reminiscent of real-life pretzel sticks or snack curls. Meanwhile, “Terrible” directly calls attention to its notoriously awful taste, which is humorously mentioned in dialogue from NPCs who either dare each other to eat one or shudder at the mere mention of it. This naming choice is consistent with the game’s playful tone and satirical take on food culture in Paldea.
The exaggeration of flavor and presentation aligns with the broader tradition in Pokémon games of using absurd or comical elements to entertain players. By labeling a snack as “terrible,” the game invites curiosity and engagement—players are often intrigued to find something so notoriously bad. The name also fosters community discussion, memes, and lore speculation, transforming a simple background detail into a cultural reference point within the Pokémon fanbase.
Are Terrible Twists based on a real-world food?
While Terrible Twists are a fictional creation for the Pokémon universe, they appear to draw inspiration from real-world spiral-shaped snacks such as pretzel rods, cheese curls, or twisted breadsticks. Visually, they resemble curly, golden-brown processed snack foods often found in vending machines or convenience stores. The exaggerated twist in their design and the bright packaging shown in concept art suggest a playful parody of mass-market junk food, common in Japanese pop culture and anime-inspired aesthetics.
The “terrible taste” aspect is likely an exaggeration for comedic effect, as no real snack is marketed as deliberately awful. However, the concept echoes novelty or challenge foods like extremely spicy chips or bitter candies, which are consumed for fun rather than enjoyment. In this context, Terrible Twists may be symbolic of how fictional worlds amplify mundane elements—turning an ordinary snack into a legendary culinary disaster for narrative charm and player amusement.
Can players trade or gift Terrible Twists to other characters?
Within Pokémon Violet, players can indirectly “gift” Terrible Twists by completing quests that require handing them over to specific NPCs. While there is no direct gifting mechanic like in some life-simulation games, the delivery system effectively serves the same role. For instance, a character might ask the player to bring them a Terrible Twist to settle a bet or test their courage. Once delivered, the NPC usually reacts dramatically to the taste, creating a humorous or memorable moment in the side story.
Additionally, in multiplayer or trading interactions via Wonder Trade or Link Trade, Terrible Twists cannot be transferred since they are non-essential, non-consumable quest items. They remain bound to the player’s inventory until used in a task or stored indefinitely. However, players often share their findings online, encouraging others to seek out the item. This social aspect enhances the collectible experience, turning a simple in-game trinket into a shared point of discovery within the Pokémon community.
What makes Terrible Twists a mysterious food item in Pokémon Violet?
The mystery around Terrible Twists stems primarily from the lack of concrete information within the game about their ingredients, creator, or exact purpose. While other food items in Pokémon Violet have clear origins or brands, Terrible Twists are shrouded in silence—no official manufacturer is named, and their recipe is never disclosed. This absence of detail has led fans to speculate wildly, creating theories ranging from them being a failed culinary experiment to a secret government snack designed to test endurance.
Furthermore, the inconsistent availability and cryptic dialogue from NPCs deepen the intrigue. Some characters speak of Terrible Twists in hushed tones, as if referencing an urban legend, while others treat them as a mundane though unfortunate reality. This blend of absurdity and ambiguity transforms the snack into more than just a quirky collectible—it becomes a symbol of the game’s layered storytelling and its ability to turn even the smallest details into compelling mysteries worth investigating.