Understanding chopstick etiquette: the dos and don’ts
Chopsticks are a popular utensil used in many Asian countries to eat their traditional cuisine. However, with Westerners becoming more familiar with Asian food, it’s important to understand the proper chopstick etiquette to avoid any cultural faux pas. One of the most overlooked aspects of chopstick etiquette is the practice of sharing chopsticks. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when sharing chopsticks.
Do sanitize or use chopstick sleeves
Sharing chopsticks may be communal, but it’s not hygienic. Refrain from putting a used chopstick in your mouth, then passing it on to the next person. To avoid this, sanitize chopsticks before use with a napkin or hand sanitizer. Also, many restaurants provide chopstick sleeves that wrap around the top of the chopsticks. These sleeves are also an effective way to avoid sharing germs.
Don’t use chopsticks to grab food from a communal dish
When eating at a restaurant, it’s common to order dishes that are meant to be shared among the table. However, using your chopsticks to grab food from a communal dish is not only improper but also unhygienic. Instead, use tongs or spoons provided to transfer food to a personal plate. If no serving utensils are available, use the blunt end of your chopsticks to move food to your plate.
Do offer the cleaner end of the chopsticks to others
When sharing chopsticks, it’s important to offer the cleaner end to others. This shows respect for the people you’re dining with and acknowledges that you understand the proper chopstick etiquette. On the other hand, presenting the contaminated end of the chopstick to others is viewed as poor manners and a lack of consideration for others.
Don’t use chopsticks to point, wave or play games
Chopsticks are not designed to be used as a tool for anything other than eating. Pointing or waving with chopsticks is seen as rude and disrespectful, especially in Asian cultures. In some Asian countries, it’s also considered bad luck to point or gesture with chopsticks. Don’t use chopsticks to play games or make noise, either – this should only be done in a casual setting with friends or family outside a public environment.
