Poke sallet eating contests are held at festivals celebrating the edible shoots and leaves of the pokeweed plant. Pokeweed is also known as poke sallet and polk salad.

About pokeweed

Pokeweed is a poisonous plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall. In the spring and early summer, the shoots and leaves are edible if cooked properly. Later in the summer, the berries and plant become deadly. Raw poke can make you sick or even kill you.

Poke sallet history

Poke sallet was originally eaten for survival because its toxins were thought to be a potent tonic.

Poke Eating Contest