Snake in a Store’s Product
Ths urban legend probably suggests the dangers of buying low-priced bargains and/or imported goods. There are many versions of this legend. It usually tells of a shopper who have her hands running over a rug, yard good, blanket, or even a piece of clothing when she feels a prick. She collapses and attendants at the hospital determined that it was a bite from a poisonous snake. In some stories, a snake or snake eggs have been sewn into the lining or the pocket of a piece of clothing. Another story suggests that an Asian doctor working at the hospital immediately recognizes the bite and knows the antidote.
This urban legend traces back to the late 1960s. It is also suggested that the legend was revenge from Southeast Asia in retaliation for the United States military involvement in Vietnam. However, Mexico and South America are supposed sources for the contamination as well.
(Source: Brunvand, Jan H. Encyclopedia of Urban Legends. 2001.)
