In early September, mysterious white, dough-like blobs began washing up on the beaches of Newfoundland, Canada. Residents describe these strange objects as varying in size, emitting an odor reminiscent of vegetable oil, and looking like “failed dough.” Local authorities and scientists are actively conducting tests to uncover the nature of these enigmatic substances.
According to the Daily Mail, the white blobs were first spotted around September 7, covering areas of seagrass, sand, and pebbles along the coastline. Their sudden appearance has sparked discussions and speculations among the local community.
Stan Tobin, a resident, shared his impressions of the blobs, stating they smell like vegetable oil and look like “somebody’s disastrous attempt at baking.” Another local, Philip Grace, noted that the blobs resemble something akin to toutons, a local type of doughnut.
Reports from the Globe and Mail mention that these objects have a pockmarked surface, feel sticky to the touch, and possess a firm, sponge-like texture along with flammable properties. Their sizes range from that of a coin to a dinner plate.
Speculation is rife, with some suggesting these blobs could be fungi or mold, while others think they might be composed of palm oil, paraffin, or even ambergris. A scientist interviewed pointed out that the blobs are definitely not sponges since they ignite when burned, leading them to suspect the presence of some kind of oil.
Samantha Bayard, a spokesperson for Canada’s Department of Environment and Climate Change, highlighted the potential criminal implications tied to these blobs. She stated that if enforcement officers discover evidence pointing to violations of federal environmental regulations, appropriate action would be taken.
Current findings suggest that these mysterious masses are not made from any type of petroleum hydrocarbons, oil lubricants, biodiesel, or biofuels, but further testing is underway, expected to take about a month to complete.
Nadine Wells, head of marine ecological research at the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Centre in St. John’s, expressed her bewilderment at the blobs, stating they have never encountered anything like it and are working diligently to find answers.
