We have been celebrating birthdays with cake since the Middle Ages, according to historians. On such an occasion one would expect a light and fluffy body with a cream or jam filling, a good layer of icing and maybe some decoration on top.
But sushi-loving Japan has started celebrating special occasions with a cake made entirely from raw meat.
It seems nothing is safe from the wheel of progress.
Red meat is considered a luxury protein in Japan and the latest trend across the country is to have a cake constructed entirely from raw strips of meat. Smaller cuts are even moulded into flowers and ornate decoration.
The meat is not actually eaten raw, though; it is cooked on a grill straight after being served and has become popular at Japanese grill restaurants, known as yakiniku.
Cakes are usually served with candles, sparklers, flowers and a celebratory plaque too.
Pictures posted on social media reveal the cake craze in all its meaty glory.
It appears the trend is spreading from Japan to Europe.
Although not everyone is impressed.