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More people are starting to eat with their hands now

 By Reya MehrotraIssue Date: May 07, 2023Updated: April 30, 2023 08:07 IST

The recent Rani Mukerji-starrer Mrs Chatterjee Vs Norway, based on a true story, stirred many conversations and debates. Among them, was the debate on how eating with hands has often been viewed as “uncivilised, uncultured” by the west. But, is it a practice prevalent only in third world countries? Of course not. The art of eating with hands is not simply about “polite” or “impolite” eating habits that grew out of cultural, climate and civilisational changes. And, as more people turn to it today citing scientific, practical and even sensual benefits, it is clear that it is here to stay.

Hot dal or sambhar poured over rice, mixed with a generous helping of vegetables, some pickle thrown in, papad crushed, an occasional helping of curd poured over. This amalgamation is then mixed with the finger tips, rolled into a bite-sized ball and pushed into the mouth. As the flavours release on the tongue, it satisfies the senses. Rice and curries in Kolkata, vada pav in Maharashtra, yakhni pulao in Kashmir, and khakras, bhakharis and handvos in Gujarat are all best enjoyed with bare hands. Sri Lankans, Malaysians, Indonesians, Pakistanis and Nepalis feast with hands. Further away, people in the Middle East, Africa and South America, too, eat with hands.

The experience

The art of eating with hands can be compared to the art of drinking wine, which, like food, is a sensual experience. Art historian, academic, author and museum curator Alka Pande believes that for Indians, it is about the flavour and taste. “Our body and our food are related,” she says. “We are a sensual lot―the touch, taste and smell of the food are related. We believe in pressure points in hands and the physicality of food is important for us. Flavour of rice or roti is enhanced when had with hands. Where is the flavour in having it with knife and fork?” She adds that cold materials of cutlery take away the warmth of food.

Pande, whose husband is in the services, recalls coming across a high-ranking officer eating a paratha with a knife and fork. “I was so ashamed back then that I could not eat my paratha with bare hands,” she says. “But, even today, I cannot have my paratha with a knife and fork. Indian food and street food like golgappas, puris and curries are such that you cannot pick up a knife and fork for it.”

Chef and restaurateur Kunal Kapur believes that food is the only art that requires all the senses. “From the sound of cooking to its aroma, touch and feel, visual appeal and taste, food requires all senses,” he says, adding that touch is important as it allows you to feel what you are about to put in your mouth. “That is why the Indian way of eating is through touch, wherein you break the bread, dip it in aachar, break a little papad, put in onion, dip it in curry and savour it,” he says.

The benefits

The science behind the art of eating with hands lies in traditional Indian scriptures and ayurvedic practices. According to ayurveda, the five fingers symbolise the five elements―the thumb represents fire, the index finger represents air, and the middle finger, ring finger and little finger represent sky/space, earth and water, respectively. Hence, eating with hands is known to stimulate the five senses and the nerve endings on the fingers stimulate digestion.

Experts also suggest that when eating with hands, one eats in controlled proportions and hence overeating can be avoided. Some even believe that with the tactile sense being put into use, the food’s taste is enhanced. According to ayurvedic practitioners, the best way to eat is with hands, after washing them thoroughly, using only fingers (without soiling the palm), while sitting on the floor cross-legged to aid digestion. Kapur says the fingers must not enter the mouth while eating, but must push the food into the mouth. “It brings one close to the meal experience,” he says. “Indian food is about playing with the senses.” He adds that eating with hands with friends brings people closer.

According to Payal Kothari, gut health nutritionist and wellness coach, eating with hands is the perfect way to connect with one’s culture and heritage and has several benefits. “It improves digestion as you are more likely to chew your food properly,” she says. “Hands and eyes can also detect the temperature and texture of the food, helping your body prepare for digestion.” Kothari also feels that eating with hands can help you eat more mindfully and be more present during meals. Additionally, it can be more hygienic than using cutlery, she says.

The stigma

In the western, ‘polite’ culture, eating with hands may often be taboo. This leads to instances of discrimination. Moreover, the way people eat with hands also differs from geography to geography. In northern India, for instance, licking fingers after the meal might not be a popular practice, but down south, it symbolises a sumptuous meal.

Within India, Covid-19 raised concerns about eating with hands in public spaces. But, academic, food critic and historian Pushpesh Pant says there is no guarantee that the cutlery is hygienic. “I have rarely seen even five-star hotels offering sealed packs of cutlery that has been cleaned,” he says. “We do not know if it has fallen on the floor or has been touched with dirty hands.” He argues that post Covid, there is no way to know if a person has washed his hands for 40 seconds before cooking or offering a meal.

While Pant does not believe that food can taste different when had with hands, he, too, says that from India to Nepal and Sri Lanka, the food is such that one cannot always use cutlery. “You cannot eat a motichoor laddoo or a papad with knife and fork,” he says.

On the other hand, the way one eats is influenced by the geographies, the climatic conditions, and the availability and type of food. For instance, in European countries and in the US, it becomes hard to eat a steak, a roast lamb, baked vegetables, soups, noodles or salads with hands. Additionally, in cooler climates, eating with hands also means washing hands more often in extremely cold water. Before water heaters were widely available, this was, at times, an impossible task.

However, despite such challenges, the knife-and-fork ‘revolution’ seems to have happened fairly recently in human history―after the 16th-17th centuries. The table knife is said to have been invented by French statesman and clergyman Cardinal Richelieu in 1637. While two-pronged forks had existed since the 8th-9th centuries, a proper fork was introduced in Europe in the 10th century by Emperor Otto’s wife Theophanu. It became popular in France only after Catherine de’ Medici’s marriage to King Henry II.

Before that the Italians and French ate with hands, according to food writer, television show host, restaurant consultant and author Karen Anand. “[It was] only after Catherine de’ Medici influenced the culinary cultures of Italy and France and introduced the fork that the French started to be considered the pinnacle of good taste and manners,” says Anand. “Before that, in medieval England, and all over Asia, people ate with hands and, in Europe, used knives to cut big pieces of meat.”

espite the prevailing perception that using cutlery is a more hygienic approach, Dr Radhakrishnan firmly held his ground. He believed that using one’s hands to eat was inherently cleaner than relying on spoons or forks, as the hygiene of the latter depended on the person washing them.

Food, an essential aspect of human existence, has been enjoyed in numerous ways across cultures and traditions. One fundamental debate that has persisted for ages is the choice between using hands or spoons while eating. Both methods hold cultural significance and practical benefits, but which reigns supreme? In this article, we will explore the art of eating with hands and spoons, exploring their merits, cultural relevance, and impact on our overall dining experience.

The Joy of Eating with One’s Hands
Eating with hands is deeply rooted in human history and predates the invention of utensils. Across cultures, eating with hands is celebrated as an intimate and sensory experience. The tactile connection with the food provides a profound sense of satisfaction and connection to the meal. As we use our fingers to pick up morsels and bring them to our mouths, we are immersed in the food’s textures, temperatures, and aromas.

This method of eating is particularly cherished in cultures like India, parts of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, where traditional meals are often served on large communal platters, encouraging a shared experience that fosters bonds between individuals and strengthens social cohesion.

Benefits of Eating with Hands
Apart from the cultural significance, eating with hands also offers several practical benefits:

Temperature Sensing: Our hands act as natural thermometers, enabling us to gauge the temperature of hot or cold foods before they reach our mouths. This prevents us from burning our mouths or unpleasant cold surprises.

Enhanced Flavour Perception: The direct contact between food and our fingers heightens our sensitivity to textures and flavours, allowing us to savour each bite thoroughly.

Improved Digestion: Eating with hands aids digestion by promoting better chewing and ensuring that food is thoroughly mixed with saliva, starting the digestive process in the mouth.

Cultural Significance
In cultures where eating with hands is the norm, it holds immense cultural significance. It represents humility, equality, and a connection with one’s roots and heritage. The communal act of sharing a meal with hands fosters a sense of unity and togetherness, transcending boundaries and fostering stronger relationships.

In the realm of upholding our age-old traditions, the esteemed former President of India, Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, stood tall as a proud flag bearer of India’s custom of eating with hands. Embracing his cultural heritage with unwavering pride, he championed this practice during his interactions and visits to foreign leaders and lands, leaving an indelible mark on those around him.

Despite the prevailing perception that using cutlery is a more hygienic approach, Dr Radhakrishnan firmly held his ground. He believed that using one’s hands to eat was inherently cleaner than relying on spoons or forks, as the hygiene of the latter depended on the person washing them. Expressing his confidence in his own cleanliness, he humorously remarked, “Since nobody can use my hand to eat, my hand is more hygienic than any spoon or fork you use.”

A striking incident exemplifying his unwavering stance occurred during a dinner with British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. As Dr Radhakrishnan cleansed his hands before partaking in the meal and started eating with the grace of tradition, Churchill opted for the conventional spoons and forks. Churchill couldn’t resist the urge to persuade his distinguished guest to follow suit, citing the supposed hygiene benefits of cutlery.

To this, Dr Radhakrishnan offered a thought-provoking retort, emphasizing that the uniqueness of using one’s own hands made it a more sanitary choice than the shared utensils. In his eloquent response, he highlighted, “While many people use the same spoon, only you use your hands. Which one is now more unsanitary, you ask yourself? So, if you’re in a fine restaurant or something, don’t be afraid to eat with your hands. In India, we don’t eat using spoons.”

His wisdom and wit left a lasting impression on all who witnessed this exchange, shedding light on the importance of cultural diversity and the preservation of age-old practices. Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s steadfast commitment to his roots continues to inspire many to cherish and embrace their traditions, even in the face of modern influences. His legacy serves as a reminder that some customs are not only a reflection of one’s identity but also a source of timeless wisdom and insight.

Benefits of Eating with a Spoon
Spoons offer numerous advantages that have made them an indispensable part of modern dining:

Precision: The spoon’s design allows for precise portion control, making it easier to manage serving sizes and reducing potential food waste.
Hygiene: Using a spoon minimizes direct contact with food, promoting better hygiene, especially when eating in public or communal settings.
Efficiency: The spoon’s handling of different foods makes it an ideal choice for quick and convenient meals.
The advent of spoons revolutionized how we consume food, making it more convenient and efficient. The spoon’s invention can be traced back to ancient civilizations; over time, it has become a staple in culinary practices worldwide. The use of spoons allows for easy handling of liquid or semi-liquid foods, and its versatility extends from soups and stews to desserts and rice dishes.

Cultural Significance
Though eating with a spoon may lack the profoundly ingrained cultural significance of eating with hands in certain cultures, it remains an essential symbol of civilization and sophistication. In many Western cultures, spoons are associated with table manners, etiquette, and refinement, reinforcing the notion of a “civilized” society.

The Choice is Yours: Personal Preference Matters
In the debate of hands versus spoons, there is no definitive answer. The choice between the two is subjective and often influenced by cultural upbringing, personal preference, and the type of food being consumed. While some may find joy and satisfaction in using their hands to eat, others may prefer a spoon’s convenience and precision.

Combining Traditions and Embracing Diversity
In today’s globalized world, culinary practices from different cultures are becoming increasingly accessible and celebrated. Instead of pitting hands against spoons, we can embrace the diversity of dining practices and learn from one another. Engaging in multicultural dining experiences enriches our understanding of different traditions and fosters appreciation for our humanity.

Whether eating with hands or using spoons, consuming food is integral to our daily lives. Both methods hold their unique charm, and neither is superior. Ultimately, the best way of eating allows us to enjoy and savour our meals, fosters connections with others, and respects the cultural traditions that shape our dining experiences. So, next time you sit down for a meal, embrace the joy of eating, no matter which method you choose to partake in the delightful feast before you.

Conclusion:

Whether you eat with a hand or spoon, it doesn’t matter if you are hungry. Lakhs of people do not have the luxury of choosing between a hand or a spoon. They struggle even to afford a single meal of the day. Ketto, a reputed crowdfunding platform, has emerged as a powerful force in enabling positive social change and supporting various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) dedicated to serving those in dire need of food.

In their unyielding mission to alleviate hunger and poverty, these NGOs strive to provide ration kits and run community kitchens to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to basic sustenance. By joining forces with Ketto’s Social Impact Plan (SIP), individuals can play a vital role in transforming the lives of the less fortunate, uplifting communities, and fostering sustainable change.

Ketto, as a leading crowdfunding platform, acts as a bridge connecting philanthropic individuals with NGOs relentlessly working on the ground to address nutrition and food security issues. The platform offers a user-friendly interface, enabling donors to explore various campaigns initiated by NGOs with proven track records of delivering impactful solutions. Through Ketto, donors gain direct access to projects supporting the marginalized sections of society, such as daily wage labourers, street children, elderly citizens, and underprivileged families who struggle to meet their nutritional needs.

The NGOs partnered with Ketto are on the frontline of providing ration kits to those in need. These kits typically contain essential food items like rice, wheat, pulses, cooking oil, and other necessities. Contributions play a crucial role by donating to such initiatives in ensuring that vulnerable communities have access to nutritious meals, even during challenging times such as natural disasters, pandemics, or economic downturns.

Furthermore, some of these NGOs have taken the initiative to establish community kitchens. These kitchens serve as bastions of hope for those who have fallen through society’s safety nets. They provide hot meals and serve as spaces where individuals can come together, share their stories, and receive emotional support, fostering a sense of community and dignity.

Ketto has emerged as a beacon of hope for the less fortunate, offering a platform for NGOs to reach out to compassionate donors ready to make a difference.

By joining Ketto’s Social Impact Plan, individuals can transform lives and shape a brighter future for those in need. Together, we can forge a more compassionate and equitable world where no one is left behind in the struggle for sustenance and dignity.

Yes, there are some scientific reasons for it. But before you start reading my answer, let me clarify that my perspective on this has nothing to do with Ayurveda or with any other secret juice secretion from hand. By word ‘scientific’ I mean something that intellectually encompasses the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment.

So, these interrelated reasons can be classified under two groups.

Effectiveness of Hands as End Effectors:

Our hands are evolved over thousands of years to be the best end effectors ever. End effectors are one of the principal elements of any robotic system. They are also called manipulators. The effectors are the parts of the robot that actually do the work like gripping, moving, cutting, hammering etc. If you consider the wrist part of end effectors in robots, they have sometimes 3 to 4 joints at max. Now number of joints decides the degrees of freedom for movement. In simple terms, Degree of freedom means variety of movement. Higher number of joints leads to high degree of freedom of movement. It leads to more variety in movements and more versatility of manipulator.

s there any scientific reason behind Indians eating food by hand?

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Lifelong fan of homemade gujarati traditional thali.7y
Originally Answered: is there any scientific reason behind Indians eating food by hand ?
Yes, there are some scientific reasons for it. But before you start reading my answer, let me clarify that my perspective on this has nothing to do with Ayurveda or with any other secret juice secretion from hand. By word ‘scientific’ I mean something that intellectually encompasses the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment.

So, these interrelated reasons can be classified under two groups.

Effectiveness of Hands as End Effectors:

Our hands are evolved over thousands of years to be the best end effectors ever. End effectors are one of the principal elements of any robotic system. They are also called manipulators. The effectors are the parts of the robot that actually do the work like gripping, moving, cutting, hammering etc. If you consider the wrist part of end effectors in robots, they have sometimes 3 to 4 joints at max. Now number of joints decides the degrees of freedom for movement. In simple terms, Degree of freedom means variety of movement. Higher number of joints leads to high degree of freedom of movement. It leads to more variety in movements and more versatility of manipulator.

Now let me tell you that each human hand contains 29 major joints (you can find 15 by just visual inspection) . So this makes it most versatile manipulator which can perform almost any function under the sky. This is why human hand has always inspired the robotics scholars. So it’s always wise to use best end effectors when it comes to eating as well. Now this is the ‘pull factor’ for making Indians use their hands.

Diversity of Indian Food:

Indian food is most diverse food in the world. And it has many types of diversity. I mean diversity in taste, diversity in contents, diversity in physical forms. So that means, there’s so much diversity in diversity itself. But here, for this answer we forget some of them like diversity of taste and content and concentrate on diversity of physical forms.

Indians deals with solid, semi solid and liquid foods in same dish. If we take example of gujarati food then you have Roti, rice (solid), Shaak (semi solid), daal or kadhi (liquid) etc in your same lunch. And interesting thing is that they all comes as couples (I mean in pair :p ). For example you have to insert Sabji in Roti for eating and same goes for rice and daal. You just can’t do it easily when you use other stuffs like spoons and all. I’ve seen, with pity, foreigners struggling to roll the Roti and inserting Sabji in it with spoon and fork.

Same goes for south India. Rice is predominant in their daily meals and from north Indian standards they eat it in hell of a quantity. So, I’ve observed that they use whole fist to eat it, while north Indian mostly play with their fingers. These improvisation give them high input capacity for the same given time.

Now this is push factor because this diversity in food compels us to use most versatile end effectors and as said earlier, they are our hands. So we eat with our hands. It’s just a simple logic.

Why Eating With Hands Is More Than Just A TraditionADVERTISEMENTEating with hands contributes to healthy eating and overall well-being. The benefits are surprising and eye-opening.Shubham BhatnagarUpdated: June 09, 2023 20:54 IST
Why Eating With Hands Is More Than Just A Tradition
Many cultures promote eating with hands.
Highlights
Some food traditions passed over generations are still relevant.Eating with hands forms an important of many food cultures.It’s not just a tradition, this method offers many health benefits too.
In a world where traditions fade away or take on new forms, it’s time to give a nod to those forgotten gems. Some transformations are undeniably for the better, but there’s one age-old practice that has stood the test of time: eating with our hands! Sure, shiny cutlery may have taken over our tables, but there’s a tribe of bold individuals who still relish the touch of their fingertips on their meals. Let’s take a delicious journey back in time to ancient civilizations like India, Greece and Egypt, where this vibrant tradition thrived.
But according to food and health experts, eating with your hands goes beyond mere tradition – it’s a health-conscious choice! You might not have given it a second thought, but fear not, we’ve got your back (and your plate) covered. From improved digestion to heightened awareness of portion sizes, eating with hands has more health benefits than you might have ever imagined.
Also Read: Around The World On Streets: 16 Most Popular Street Foods Across The Globe
What Ayurveda Says

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine in India that teaches us how to live in harmony with nature. According to Ayurveda, eating with your hands is not only hygienic but also beneficial for your senses and digestion. Ayurveda says that each finger represents one of the five elements: space (thumb), air (index finger), fire (middle finger), water (ring finger), and earth (little finger). When we eat with our hands, we make a gesture that activates these elements and balances the energies in our body. Also, when we touch our food with our fingers, we send signals to our brain that we are ready to eat, which prepares our stomach and other digestive organs for the process of digestion. Eating with hands also helps us to be more mindful of what we eat, how much we eat, and how fast we eat, which are all important factors for healthy digestion.
Also Read: 7 Traditional Cooking Techniques Used In Indian Cuisine

What Science Says:

Eating with your hands may also have some scientific benefits that are supported by research. Some of these benefits are:

1. Improves Blood Circulation

Eating with hands involves the movement of the fingers and the hand muscles, which can improve blood circulation and prevent stiffness in the joints.

2. Stimulates Digestion

Eating with hands can stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and juices in the mouth and stomach, which can help break down the food more efficiently and prevent indigestion, bloating, and gas.ADVERTISEMENT

3. Prevents Overeating

Eating with hands can make us more aware of the texture, taste, and aroma of the food, which can increase our satisfaction and satiety levels. This can prevent us from overeating and help us maintain a healthy weight.

4. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

Eating with hands can slow down the speed of eating, which can lower the glycemic index of the food and prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. This can be beneficial for people with diabetes or prediabetes.ADVERTISEMENT

5. Boosts Immunity

Eating with hands can expose us to some beneficial bacteria or flora that reside on our skin, mouth, and gut. These bacteria can protect us from harmful pathogens and infections and strengthen our immune system.
Also Read: This Is Why You Must Eat On A Banana Leaf

What Culture Says:

Eating food with hands is not only a healthy habit but also a cultural one. Many cuisines around the world are designed to be eaten with hands, such as Indian rotis and curries, Ethiopian injera and stews, Moroccan couscous and tagines, Mexican tacos and burritos, etc. Eating these foods with cutlery can take away from their authentic flavour and experience. Eating food with hands can also create a sense of connection and intimacy with the food, the people who prepared it, and the people who share it. It can foster a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the food that nourishes us.ADVERTISEMENT
The Art of Eating with Hands

The process of eating with hands involves more than just picking up food. Different cultures have their own techniques and etiquette when it comes to eating with hands. For example, in Indian culture, using the right hand is preferred as the left hand is considered unclean. Each finger may be used for different types of food such as using the thumb and index finger for tearing off a piece of bread or using all fingers to mix rice and curry. Understanding and respecting these cultural nuances can enhance the experience of eating with hands.
Mindful Eating and Connection

Eating with hands can promote mindful eating, which involves being fully present and attentive to the act of eating. The sensory experience of touching food with hands, feeling its texture, and experiencing its temperature can deepen the connection with the food. By slowing down the eating process, we can savour each bite, appreciate the flavours, and develop a greater sense of gratitude for the nourishment the food provides.ADVERTISEMENT
Hygiene and Food Safety

While eating with hands offers various benefits, it is crucial to maintain proper hygiene. Washing hands before and after eating is essential to prevent the spread of bacteria. Additionally, keeping nails trimmed and clean, and avoiding touching the face or hair during the meal, ensures food safety. These hygiene measures are important for enjoying the practice of eating with hands without any concerns.
Also Read: Traditional Foods From Our Hometowns That We Love And Miss
The Bottom Line
Eating food with hands is a healthy habit that has many benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It can enhance our digestion, blood circulation, immunity, and weight management. It can also enrich our sensory experience, mindfulness, and cultural awareness. However, eating food with hands also requires some hygiene measures. By following these precautions and embracing the art of eating with hands mindfully, we can enjoy the health benefits and cultural richness that this tradition offers.
So, ditch the utensils, roll up those sleeves, and get ready to savour every morsel with a touch of finger-licking indulgence!
Note: Remember to wash your hands and keep your nails tidy for a truly hygienic and delightful experience. Trust us, eating with hands will make you wonder why you ever bothered with those clunky spoons and forks.

Is eating with utensils better than eating with your hand?
October 21, 2016 12:48 PM
Objectively speaking, is it better to eat with utensils than hands? If so, why?

About 2/3 of the world’s population eats with utensils and 1/3 does not. Leaving aside social/cultural norms, is there any reason why eating with utensils is better than eating with hands? Is it cleaner, healthier? Should eating with utensils be considered more evolved for valid scientific reasons?

Let’s assume that people wash their hands before eating with them, and that utensils are washed in a normal, everyday manner (i.e. not sterilized before each use).
posted by yawper to Science & Nature (27 answers total)

Isn’t it just that some people eat utensils and others don’t?
posted by MisantropicPainforest at 12:51 PM on October 21, 2016

Yah, I think it’s just a preference thing.
posted by janey47 at 12:58 PM on October 21, 2016

“More evolved” is not a valid scientific concept at all, even when talking about a biological organism subject to natural selection, let alone when talking about a culturally-defined behavior, and really, neither is “objectively better”.

At most you could maybe say that in a certain context, given certain patterns of hygiene and certain methods of food production, one or the other led to higher rates of foodborne illness and maybe somebody here can produce some research on that, but that’s a very different thing from more evolved.
posted by strangely stunted trees at 1:00 PM on October 21, 2016

Sorry, I shouldn’t have used the word “evolved” since it has different scientific connotations. My question is, can any evidence point to one method being better than the other?