Aristide's Final Hours

The Threat to Chopsticks

Greens and doctors are against them, and now it seems they cause arthritis too. Can anything save chopsticks?

The Year of the Goat

The Year of the Goat has not been kind to chopsticks, as integral a part of everyday life as breathing in the world’s most populous nation. With a recorded use dating back at least 3000 years – most people believe they evolved from twigs used to pluck heated food from the fire – it seems ridiculous to even suggest they could ever be under threat in a country so intensely proud of its cultural heritage.

A Powerful Three-Pronged Attack

This humble eating tool has been subjected to a powerful three-pronged attack – and no, it’s not from the fork that is preferred throughout the Western world.

Sars Outbreak: The deadly Sars outbreak saw the almost universal use of chopsticks questioned among ordinary Chinese, as warnings against sharing food from the same communal bowls using (saliva-coated) chopsticks started to be taken very seriously indeed.
Environmental Concerns: The nation’s growing environmental lobby has renewed attacks on the enormous waste incurred by the widespread use of disposable wooden chopsticks favoured by the vast majority of restaurants and fast food joints.
Arthritis Link: Research on behalf of the American College of Rheumatology concluded that the long-term use of chopsticks could increase the risk of arthritis in the hands.

Arthritis and Chopsticks

Research carried out by Dr David Hunter of Boston University’s School of Medicine found that arthritis was more common in the hand that used chopsticks. However, other studies have also linked arthritis to any repetitive use of the hand.

A doctor at the Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital in Beijing, who chose to remain anonymous, questioned the validity of the study and pointed out that the risk of arthritis is not limited to using chopsticks.

The Future of Chopsticks

Despite the threats and concerns, the majority of Chinese people, especially the younger generation, continue to embrace chopsticks as an integral part of their culture and daily life.

The Unwavering Love for Chopsticks

While there may be discussions and studies raising concerns about the health implications of using chopsticks, many Chinese people remain fiercely loyal to their traditional eating utensil. For them, chopsticks are like an extension of their hands, and they cannot imagine giving them up.

Even the younger generation, heavily influenced by Western culture, still prefer chopsticks over knives and forks. The unfamiliarity and discomfort experienced when using cutlery are enough to dissuade them from making the switch.

The Hospitality Industry: Hotels and Chopsticks

The ongoing discussions about chopsticks and their potential health risks have not gone unnoticed by the hospitality industry, particularly hotels that cater to both local and foreign guests.

Kitchen Dilemma

Hotels with international dining options often provide a range of utensils including knives, forks, and spoons to meet the needs and preferences of their guests. However, when it comes to traditional Chinese cuisine, many hotels still choose to provide chopsticks.

While some establishments may offer both chopsticks and cutlery, others prioritize authenticity and cultural experience by exclusively providing chopsticks. This decision can be seen as a way to showcase traditional Chinese dining customs and create a more immersive cultural experience for guests.

Guest Preferences

Despite the ongoing debates surrounding chopsticks, many hotel guests, both Chinese and foreign, still appreciate and embrace the opportunity to use chopsticks when dining in China. For them, it adds a sense of novelty and adventure to their culinary experience.

However, hotels that aim to cater to diverse guest preferences often provide alternatives such as disposable wooden chopsticks or utensils upon request. This allows guests to have the freedom to choose based on their personal comfort and familiarity.

Ultimately, the decision to provide chopsticks or cutlery in hotels relies on striking a balance between cultural authenticity, guest preferences, and considerations for health and sustainability. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the hospitality industry will adapt to the evolving attitudes towards chopsticks.