A set of hands or utensils to use at the next meal
On a random day in late June on the way to Sandy Point Beach located in Annapolis, Maryland, Nutellio was hungry and decided to pull over at a Royal Farm petrol station to yum yum a salmon quiche (Riverfront French Bakery) . For some odd reason, he noticed he didn't have any utensils and could not find any in the Royal Farm convenience store. It was not a tough decision to use his bare hands as utensils, but it did seem a bit wrong. Then again Nutellio asked himself if he were really hungry, he would have grabbed the pastry with his hands without a doubt. Eating with utensils is a natural reaction for some people. On the other hand, some people prefer to use their hands to eat a snack and/or meal. Neither is wrong nor right. It's more about preference and what is actually available at that particular time.
Funny thing is, babies and young toddlers use their hands to eat. This behavior allows them to perceive food texture. Some might see it as child-play or goofing off, but it is an instinctive reaction for a youth to learn the feel, taste, composition and aroma of their meal. Think of it as their way of interacting with the dish. They can either take their sweet time and get intimate with it or mash up the dish before anyone even thinks of stealing anything off their plate. Another opportunity to consume extra calories is by licking the grease or flakes of food left on a person's fingers after a meal. Nothing should be wasted, so don't knock it!
Regarding using a utensil, Nutellio argues that it's more elegant. That's not necessarily true. Utensils have functional purposes as well. They can help someone pace themselves as they eat. Eating a meal at a reasonable time. It takes the brain about 20 minutes to realize a person is consuming something. It's wise to place the utensils down when chewing food and be present during the dining process. This is a very traditional custom in European countries. One can be seen devouring a slice of a pizza with a knife and fork. On the extreme side, even a burger. But when things get real, and hunger is at its peak, all bets are off. Pacing is the last thing an individual thinks about.
Both practices are acceptable. It all depends on what's available and how the consumer wants to dine. Next time when you bite into your next meal, ask yourself, should I eat this with my hands or some utensil? Notice how you justify your answer. With that being said, bon appetit or bon provecho. Ciao!
Reference
Remjin, L. et al (2019). Hand motor skills affect the intake of finger foods in toddlers (12–18 months). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodqual.2019.01.019.
Kellman, R. (2015). The Microbiome Diet: The Scientifically Proven Way to Restore Your Gut Health and Achieve Permanent Weight Loss. Da Capo Lifelong Books.
