Asian Soup Bowl and Spoon Set

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No other food culture in the world is growing faster than the various cuisines available in Asian nations. From 1999 to 2015, the demand for Asian cuisine increased by nearly 500 percent. Chinese food ranks number one in favorite Asian foods in America. However, delicious culinary traditions from other nations are quickly gaining popularity.

Today, Japanese culinary staples like rich bowls of ramen and intricate, refreshing sushi rolls dominate restaurant and home cooking trends. Bowls of poke, native to Hawaii, are one of the newest healthy food fads sweeping the nation. It is now commonplace to enjoy peanut-forward pad thai or customizable bowls of Vietnamese pho in large cities and suburban neighborhoods.

Each cuisine uses similar bowls and spoons to deliver its food, but slight nuances exist within its design and utilization. Whether you are enjoying some miso soup or chicken feet, exploring these subtle differences in Asian bowls and spoon sets will enhance your eating experience.

How To Use an Asian Soup Bowl and Spoon Set

The rising popularity of Asian food culture introduces fascinating new cooking techniques, delectable ingredients, and handy tools. Of these tools are Asian soup and bowl sets. Every Asian culinary tradition uses some form of Asian soup bowl and soup set to enhance the flavor combinations of these spectacular authentic dishes.

Most of the time, the design and use of bowls remain very similar across recipes and cultures. For the purpose of this article, we will discuss the various spoons often paired with rice, ramen, and serving bowls.

Spoons, alongside chopsticks, rank as one of the most essential utensils in Asian cooking. Unlike their American counterparts, Asian spoons are larger. Due to their size, they demand a new eating strategy to avoid embarrassing messes.

It is appropriate to hold a Chinese or Japanese renge spoon like a smaller American spoon. To fully take advantage of the spoon design, you can rest your index finger in the ditch of its curved handle. Holding the spoon this way provides the most secure grip, especially for beginners.

Now that you know how to hold the spoon, you are ready to eat with minimal mess. In addition to the spoon grip, here are a few approved ways to eat with an Asian soup bowl and spoon set:

Sipping broth from the soup
Assisting chopsticks
Politely removing waste products

Sipping Broth

When sipping broth from hot and sour soup or pho, pour the liquid from the very tip of the spoon into your mouth. It is also appropriate to drink the broth from the side of the spoon, similarly to using an American spoon. Never slide the entire spoon into your mouth, as it is too large to do politely in public.

An eating habit often seen in Asian cuisine is adding a little heat. However, the key is to not overpower or dilute the existing spice within the broth. To do that, use your Chinese spoon to hold your chili oil or preferred spicy ingredient. Hold your spoon above your bowl and dip your noodles or meat into it. This popular technique in Hong Kong and China ensures you do not overpower or dilute your broth.

Assisting Chopsticks

Many Asian dishes incorporate abundant vegetables, herbs, and starches within a flavorful broth like pho, ramen, tom kha gai, and hot pot. These popular multi-layered, robust entrees often require a flat-bottomed spoon and chopsticks to eat.

These wide, flat-bottomed spoons provide the perfect basin to build the perfect bite. Using your chopsticks, start assembling your spoon by picking and choosing morsels to stack onto your spoon. Next, use your chopsticks to bring the food from the spoon to your mouth.

While it may seem awkward or impolite, it is common for diners to use chopsticks to slide a pile of noodles, vegetables, and herbs from these large spoons into their mouths.

Polite Removal of Waste

Many Asian cultures eat delicacies like chicken feet or other unpopular, bony parts of animals. Chicken feet remain popular in Vietnam, the Philippines, Korea, and especially China. These foods often leave bones and other unchewable items behind.

A Chinese soup spoon provides an elegant way to remove the residual bones from your mouth. Discreetly slide the bones from your mouth back onto the spoon and leave it on the plate.

Importance of Asian Soup Bowl and Spoon Sets in Asian Cuisine

While most people think of chopsticks first, spoons are a far more versatile and widely-used utensil in Asian cuisine.

China

The earliest appearance of spoons in Chinese culture dates back to the Shang Dynasty from 1766 to 1122 B.C. Some artifacts feature a sharp edge, indicating they were for soup sipping and cutting.

As Chinese cuisine developed and changed, spoons remained an essential utensil and underwent their evolution. The earliest artifacts were bone or bronze. Today, Chinese spoons are ceramic or plastic, which keep the handles cool when submerged in hot liquids.

Be sure to sip your soup quietly or use the Asian soup bowl and spoon set to assist chopsticks while eating. While some places welcome slurping, it is not polite to make unnecessary noise while eating in Chinese society.

Japanese

The Japanese soup spoon is called chirirenge, often nicknamed “renge.” A renge gets its name from the iconic lotus flower in Japan. The literal translation of chirirenge refers to a lost petal of the lotus flower and evokes the curved shape of the renge spoon. Many Asian soup bowl and spoon sets sold carry the renge style.

The shape of renge spoons appears virtually the same as a Chinese soup spoon. Some varieties include a ridge in the spoon handle to help the utensil rest easily on the side of huge bowls of ramen. A specialized renge used for miso soup may feature a slotted bottom to allow the broth to run through, leaving behind succulent kernels of corn.

Diners commonly use renges for sipping broth and assisting chopsticks for ramen, which often features hard-boiled eggs, slices of roast pork, seaweed, and noodles. A wide renge effectively corrals all of these ingredients into one spectacular bite.

Unlike the Chinese, slurping is welcome and encouraged in Japanese food etiquette. Believe it or not, some think it is rude not to slurp your ramen and may believe it indicates displeasure in your meal.

A renge is the dominant Japanese soup spoon you will encounter. However, you can use an otama for ramen or udon and soba noodle dishes. Otamas are wooden spoons featuring a long, cylindrical handle and a wide, round serving end. An otama resembles a ladle more than a spoon and is uncommon to use.

Korean

In Korea, eating tools are called sujeo, which commonly feature flat, metal chopsticks and a long-handled, shallow spoon. Spoons are featured in sujeo sets because Korean food culture believes soups or stews are essential components of a well-rounded meal.

Both pieces of the sujeo Asian soup bowl set feature distinctly-shaped utensils. The spoon and chopsticks are metal and feature shorter, flatter handles than eating tools in other Asian cultures. The spoon shape is a unique teardrop and often a separate piece of metal from the handle.

The Korean spoon design is very different from the fluid, one-piece form we see in Chinese cuisine. Unlike its Chinese counterpart, you will not see much evolution in Korean eating utensils because Korean food favors quick meals and small portions. Little time is spent on manipulating Korean sujeo.

In Korea, holding both eating utensils in one hand is rude. However, like in Japan, slurping is welcome during Korean meals.

Thai

All other Asian food cultures on this list will combine a spoon and chopsticks for efficient eating. However, in Thailand, traditional diners eat with a spoon in their right hand and a fork in their left hand. Chopsticks rarely appear in traditional Thai meals.

In 1870, a member of Thai royalty left the island for the first time in its history. This exploration brought back several innovations, including adopting spoons and forks for eating. Previously, Thai people ate with their right hands while seated on the floor.

The spoon ranks as the primary utensil in Thai food culture and is the tool that does nearly all of the work during a meal. Forks push food onto the spoon but never enter the mouth in Thailand.

Thai cooking also features a traditional Asian soup bowl set. When ordering dishes like Tom Yum or Tom Kha in a restaurant, they may arrive in a donut-shaped serving bowl with a lid and a Sterno fuel or tea candle in a tray. This mini stove setup is ideal for evenly heating delicate soups.

Conclusion

Every Asian food culture contains so many fascinating facets to explore, including many more traditions not included in this list. Asian soup bowl and spoon sets uniquely assist the enjoyment of these flavorful dishes. Be sure to investigate how these utensils work and the proper etiquette when using them in your next Asian cuisine experience.

How to Handle Plates Like a Pro When Serving Food

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Take your dinner party or restaurant service to the next level by learning to handle a plate like a pro when delivering meals to your guests.

How you properly handle plates depends on the style in which you are serving the meal overall.

While this article will detail the more common types of service, there are also styles such as the Russian Style, French Cart Style, and French Buffet style, each of which comes with other manners of serving and handling plates.

Still, many of the strategies for properly handling plates while serving foods align, despite the cultural methodology.

Using these simple tips that professional servers swear by, you’ll be sure to handle a plate properly and avoid any slip-ups that might land your meticulously arranged cheese platter on your guest’s lap.

Safety First

While serving guests, it’s essential to consider both your safety and the safety of the person receiving the meal.

For the server, standing straight, avoiding twisting while lifting trays, and using napkins or other instruments to keep from touching hot plates is essential to protect yourself and the guest while you’re serving food.

It can be easy to push yourself too hard when you’re in a rush, working with a more difficult guest, or thinking about the four other tables you have waiting.

When you’re still in the early stages of learning, it’s common to make mistakes when rushing. But making multiple trips to the kitchen is better than one colossal disaster.

So, take a breath. Remember that practice makes perfect. You’ve got this.

Food Safety

Consider food safety as well.

Avoid placing your thumb on the top of the plate as much as possible. While a small amount of contact is inevitable, keeping your thumb as close to the side of the dish as possible is ideal.

This ensures you don’t touch your guest’s food and creates a more sophisticated look and feel while serving. Practicing carrying plates in the palm of your hand is one way to improve your serving style while optimizing the satisfaction of your guests.

As with any plate-handling method, it remains crucial to consider the guest’s comfort above all else.

Avoid reaching arms around the guests to deliver or retrieve plates or touching the guest while delivering their food.

When serving food, the best service is quiet and unobtrusive, whether you’re engaging in formal dining fit for royalty or delivering a home-cooked meal to close friends in an intimate setting.

The English (Formal) Method

Back when feasts were held in grand halls and not in modest dining rooms, servers would often deliver the main portions of the meal on platters.

A server would, for example, carry a tray of mutton and deliver individual portions onto the plates of guests, and it came to be known as the English method.

Because most guests are right-handed, delivering dishes from the left side made transferring meals using the right hand easier for servers and guests alike. Drinks were then served from the right.

While many restaurants have altered their style to match a more contemporary, fast-paced dining structure, many fine dining establishments still stick to the English style as a nod to tradition and elegance during formal dining events.

This method is a great way to bring sophistication to your party or dinner service.

The American (Plated) Method

Today, servers often approach their guests from whichever side is convenient, but those following the American (plated) style deliver individual plates on the guest’s right side.

The staff often plate these dishes in the kitchen, allowing servers to carry more than one plate at once with greater ease. This style is commonly seen at weddings and events, both large and small.

When delivering the plate to the seated guest, gently lower the plate in front of them.

Avoid holding the plate over their head or passing one guest’s plate directly in front of someone else at the table.

Again, this promotes the safety of all involved and creates a more elegant ambiance when serving food.

Clearing Plates

When the meal has been served, and your guests are happy and full, it might feel like your job is done. But clearing plates properly is just as important as handling hot dishes.

Using the English Method, it is improper to stack dishes before leaving the table, as this creates noise that will disrupt the conversation between guests and draw unnecessary attention to the service.

Instead, once the guest has finished their meal, the plates are moved individually or passed to other servers to discreetly clear them away.

Ideally, servers would avoid leaving guests with empty spaces in front of them.

The American Method makes clearing plates easier, as servers can use trays to clear away empty plates for the guests.

In either method, avoid scraping any remaining food into the trash in front of guests or stacking plates to overwhelming heights before leaving the table.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Whether you’re serving a formal meal or a more casual one, properly serving food takes practice.

Plated service allows those carrying plates to their guests to manage up to three (or more!) plates at a time, allowing for a faster pace.

There are many techniques professional servers use to balance plates properly when serving food, but it’s always important to limit direct contact with the guest’s food as much as possible.

Carrying one plate might be manageable for even the most inexperienced server, but holding two or more plates with one hand is readily attainable through practice.

When carrying two plates, place the first plate on your palm, using your thumb and index finger to keep it steady. It’s important to limit as much contact with the plate as possible.

To add the second plate, carefully slide it under the first (this will keep it more secure) while using three fingers to balance it.

Feeling confident enough to add a third? Place the third plate on your forearm, using the lips of the other two plates to secure it. With enough practice, you’ll soon be juggling four plates, five plates. Hey–why not ten?

OK, maybe not ten.

Best Biodegradable Flatware: Top Reviews & Buying Guide (2022)

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Whether you want to keep your house party or picnic more environmentally conscious you’re looking for a convenient and more durable alternative to plastic flatware, biodegradable flatware is your way to go!

In today’s article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about compostable and biodegradable cutlery sets. Let’s hop in!

Biodegradable Flatware: Our Top Picks

Greenware Disposable Wooden Flatware Set – Best Overall Flatware Set
Eco-Daddy Disposable CPLA Compostable Set – Best non-wooden flatware Set
WoodAble Disposable Wooden Flatware Set – Great value for money
Ecovita Disposable Compostable Flatware Set – Premium Pick
FirstChoice Wooden Biodegradable Flatware Set – Best budget option

Top 5 Biodegradable Flatware Available on the Market

1. Greenware Disposable Wooden Flatware Set

Kicking off the list with one of the most versatile and good quality flatware sets on the market. The Greenware set is made of white birch wood, which makes it highly durable and reliable for eating while staying compostable.

The set contains 300 pieces, divided into 80 spoons, 80 forks, 40 knives, as well as 100 coffee stirring sticks, so you save the spoons for eating.

The handles are 6.3 inches, which helps it to fit both children and adult hands, which makes the set great for home use as well as party use.

Pros

Comes with a complimentary bottle opener
Saves spoons with 100 stirring sticks
Excellent balance between comfort and performance

Cons

The spoons aren’t deep enough for soups

2. Eco-Daddy Disposable CPLA Compostable Set

If you’re looking for a flatware set that gives you an absolutely authentic feel and performance while staying 100% compostable and biodegradable, you should keep this one in mind.

The Eco-Daddy is made of corn polylactic acid, which is an even greener solution that won’t chop down wood for manufacturing.

The corn-based material completely composts in 180 days, leaving no toxic wastes or chemicals.

What’s great about this set is that all the 360 pieces come with a long handle to make them much easier to use.

Pros

Comes with a serving tray
Excellent design and quality
Doesn’t have a wooden taste

Cons

Low heat tolerance

3. WoodAble Disposable Wooden Flatware Set

WoodAble is another excellent option to consider if you want the maximum number of highly durable forks and spoons without spending too much money.

The package has 300 pieces split into 120 forks, 120 spoons, and 80 knives. All of them are made of 100% biodegradable Chilean pine and poplar wood, which are known for their durability.

The manufacturer pledges to plant 4 trees for every 3 they harvest. They’re also certified by the Forest Stewardship Council!

Despite being a great product, the only room for improvement for the WoodAble flatware set is that it needs to be a bit smoother on the tongue.

Pros

Excellent quality wood
Has a large number of forks and spoons
The manufacturer has an environmental pledge

Cons

Has a dry and rough wood texture

4. Ecovita Disposable Compostable Flatware Set

If you don’t mind splurging a bit extra for an unmatched level of durability, comfort, and style, you might want to keep this one in mind.

The Ecovita flatware set contains 380 pieces, divided in 120 spoons, 140 forks, and 120 knives. They’re made of corn polylactic acid, so they’re even greener and more guilt-free than wooden ones.

What’s great about this flatware set is that it has a very high heat tolerance, which allows it to withstand up to 212 °F (100 °C).

This means that you can stir boiling hot beverages with their utensils without worrying about them releasing any dangerous by-products.

Moreover, the set is one of the few options on the market that come in a matte black and ivory white finish, which adds a touch of elegance to the set.

Pros

Available in white and black matte finishes
Ergonomic design with long handles
Very high heat resistance

Cons

Premium price tag

5. FirstChoice Wooden Biodegradable Flatware Set

Last but not least, if you’re on a strict budget, but you still need to feed a large crowd without feeling guilty, this one will get the job done!

The FirstChoice Wooden flatware set is made of a quality variant of birch wood, which makes it 100% biodegradable and compostable.

It’s also much more durable than the average flimsy plastic option without costing a whole lot more.

So in a way, it can also be more cost-effective if you count in all the broken plastic ones you’ll need to replace!

The set has 300 pieces, divided into 100 counts of each cutlery utensil. However, there are also sets with over 400 pieces for larger parties!

Pros

Ideal for buyers on a strict budget
Certified by the Forest Stewardship council
Durable and convenient

Cons

Comes in plastic packaging

Things to Look For While Shopping for Biodegradable Flatware

While shopping for a good set of biodegradable flatware, there are some aspects and specific features that you might want to take into considerations. Let’s have a brief overview of these points:

Materials and Quality

Most biodegradable flatware on the market is made of either wood or plant-based corn’s polylactic acid (CPLA).

The two materials are 100% biodegradable and can be composted entirely, so the choice between them is a matter of personal preference.

In addition to the type of material, you have to also ensure the quality of the material by checking if the product meets quality standards. A good point here is to opt for the ones certified by authoritative organizations.

Finish

There’s no point in getting a flatware set that won’t do its job. The utensil should feel smooth when you hold it. Nobody likes getting a wood splinter while they’re enjoying their meal.

The better quality sets will usually go through a multiple-hour long process of sanding and smoothing out to give you that durable yet comfortable feel.

Some biodegradable flatware will also have a unique finish, such as a matte one, to give the set a more appealing and aesthetically pleasing look.

Besides looking elegant, the reliable set should be professionally designed. The spoons should be concave enough to scoop the food easily, forks should have real ridges that will cut the food. And the ends of the forks should be pointed yet not dangerously sharp.

Heat Resistance

Of course, the design finish and how the utensils feel and perform is extremely important. But you should also include the ability to resist high temperature on your checklist.

Some materials aren’t designed to be used on hot items and may produce toxic by-products upon contact with heat, something you never want to happen with an item you put in your mouth.

A quality biodegradable flatware set should be tolerant to heat and is able to withstand up to 176 °F (80 °C) or more.

Zero Waste Packaging

There’s no point in going green for a biodegradable set if they’ll end up being packaged in a plastic box that wastes a lot of energy in production and won’t decompose for hundreds of thousands of years!

If you want an utterly guilt-free set, you should make sure that they also come in presentable yet biodegradable packaging, such as biodegradable cardboard or wooden boxes.

After Smell and Taste

Another point a lot of people realize after using biodegradable flatware is that some of them might have a strong wooden taste or smell that might interfere with whatever they’re enjoying.

Ideally, there are various wooden flatware sets on the market that have a naturally low wooden smell or have been safely treated to remove the smell as much as possible.

If you have a sensitive nose, or you don’t like any wooden smell whatsoever, consider going for a corn polylactic acid.

In addition to being a more eco-friendly option that doesn’t require cutting down trees, they also have no smell or taste, wooden or other!

Storage Tray

While having a storage tray isn’t a must for biodegradable flatware to be beneficial, it’s always one of the nicest things to have and adds value to the package!

Storage trays help in keeping the set organized and easily stored. They also make the set highly portable, which saves the time and hassle of sorting the utensils properly.

The Number and Variety of Utensils Available in the Package

In addition to the quality of the set, you should also keep an eye on quantity as well. As a rule of thumb, larger sets would cost you more per package but will save you a few cents on each disposable spoon, knife, and fork you use.

Since you’re into this for the long haul, those numbers add up nicely, making larger packs the wisest financial choice for heavy consumption.

You should also check the variation in the set. While flatware is supposed to mean spoons and forks, they usually include knives as well.

Make sure that the set contains the ideal amount of each of these tools, so you can the maximum value for your investment.

Wrap Up

As you can see, there are plenty of options on the market. If you’re looking for a more excellent wooden biodegradable flatware, you should consider the Greenware Disposable Wooden Flatware Set.

However, if you don’t mind spending a little extra for a dash of luxury all the while saving more trees, you should pick the Ecovita Disposable Compostable Flatware Set.

The 5 Best Japanese Chopsticks for Every Asian Food Lover

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Including chopsticks in your cutlery set is a must, even if you’re not exactly an expert at using them. These little Japanese utensils are affordable, versatile, and pretty easy to master if you practice often.

Are you ready to find out more about the five best Japanese chopsticks on the market?

In this article, we’ll review each set of chopsticks and help you choose the right product for you.

A Summary of the Top 5 Japanese Chopsticks

Here’s a summary of our favorites if you’re in a rush.

Now, let’s discuss the features of each product in-depth.

Reviewing the Best Japanese Chopsticks in 2021

After going through the following list, we’re pretty sure you’ll find the perfect match for your needs!

1. Antner Handmade Japanese Chopsticks

There’s no wonder why this chopsticks set has made it to the top of our list. With hand-carved patterns and natural wood, it’s captured the attention of many users.

Not only are the colorful designs at the top of the chopsticks beautiful, but they’re also non-slip. This way, they can allow you a better grip, which can be helpful if you’re a beginner.

Plus, each pair of chopsticks is nine inches long to be suitable for most people to use.

Because they’re made of natural wood and free of plastics, the Antner chopsticks are eco-friendly. So, you can reuse them over and over without harming the environment.

Pros

The hand-carved designs are pretty and non-slip
Made of natural wood to enhance durability
Dishwasher-safe
Free of BPA, PVC, and phthalates

Cons

Some people thought that the finish along the chopsticks’ length was a bit slippery
A tad heavier than disposables

2. HuaLan Japanese Natural Wood Chopstick Set

Another high-quality chopsticks you’ll likely adore is this HuaLan set. We like its raw, wooden appearance, and, being made of dark jujube wood, it’s durable enough to last for years.

Yet, the best thing about these chopsticks is that their grips are textured in a rough pattern to prevent slippage. Not only does this make using them easier, but it adds to the overall aesthetic appeal of the utensils.

Lastly, we admire that they’re varnished with lacquer, which is stain-resistant and safe to eat with.

Pros

Lightweight and non-slip to suit the use of beginners
Made of long-lasting, natural jujube wood
Eco-friendly lacquer finish
A great gift choice

Cons

A few users preferred heavier chopsticks

3. Rbenxia Stainless Steel Spiral Chopsticks

If you wish to take a break from wooden chopsticks, you may want to consider going for stainless steel ones instead. In this case, a great candidate would be this Rbenxia set.

The spiral design on the tip makes these chopsticks a breeze to hold. Plus, because they’re made of stainless steel, they can withstand a lot of wear-and-tear. Better yet, they’re convenient to clean up in the dishwasher.

We also like how the ends are tapered to make picking the food easier.

Pros

Made of durable and lightweight stainless steel
The upper part is textured to help you hold them easily
The chopsticks come with tapered ends for simple food pickup
Easy to clean in the dishwasher

Cons

The food-grabbing ends may be a bit sharp on the lips

4. AOOSY Japanese Chopsticks

These elegant Japanese chopsticks can transform your Asian meals with their black coloring and slim design. Made of high-quality natural wood, there’s no wonder why this set is a favorite of many people.

The first thing that most users agreed on is that these chopsticks are easy to hold. Their upper parts come with non-slip designs.

Plus, with their lacquered finish, they’re resistant to stains when being in contact with food.

When you’re done eating with them, all you’ll have to do is put them in the dishwasher for them to shine again.

Pros

Made of durable wood to last you years
Textured tips for a firmer grip
Food-grade lacquered finish is stain-resistant
Easy to clean in the dishwasher

Cons

The food-picking ends may be too slippery for beginners

5. Iuhan Handmade Japanese Natural Chestnut Wood Chopsticks Set

Our final candidate for the best Japanese chopsticks is this Iuhan handmade set. It’s a two-pair set, which makes it great as an anniversary gift if you like to keep things simple and practical.

What we also admire about them is that they’re made of natural chestnut wood. Therefore, they’re sturdy enough to keep you company for years, not to mention that they have a beautiful appearance.

The only downside is that their upper sides are wrapped in cloth. This may be inconvenient when trying to clean the chopsticks because the fabric tends to come loose.

Pros

Handmade of high-quality chestnut wood
%100 natural and free of plastics
A valuable gift choice

Cons

The wrapped twine tends to come off after the first wash

How to Choose the Right Chopstick Set for Your Needs

Making up your mind about the perfect chopstick set may take a while. So, we’ve decided to include the following list to help you think things through.

Your preferred material (wood, stainless steel, plastic, bamboo, etc.)
The design and color of the chopsticks
If they have patterns to prevent slippage
Finish type
Whether they’re dishwasher-safe

Japanese Chopsticks Etiquette You Should Follow

Knowing Japanese chopsticks etiquette is essential if you’re about to join your Asian friends for dinner.

Here are a few rules to follow.

Make sure you hold your chopsticks correctly
Don’t stick your chopsticks upright in your rice
Never leave them crossed in your bowl or plate
Try not to use unmatched chopsticks
Steer clear of using one chopstick at a time
Never pick food from a communal plate with your own chopsticks
Don’t stir food in your plate using your chopsticks

Wrapping Up

After reviewing the best Japanese chopsticks on the market, we’d be glad to tell which one is our favorite. We love the Antner Handmade Japanese Chopsticks for being affordable, pretty in appearance, and easy to hold.

Yet, if you want to try your luck with a more durable set, we suggest that you give Rbenxia Stainless Steel Spiral Chopsticks a try. They’re resistant to food stains, lightweight, and come in a spiraling design for a better grip.

Best Adaptive Cups for Kids: Top 2022 Picks

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5 Best Adaptive Cups for Kids

Adaptive cups often feature drinking aids to help kids pick up and drink from a cup without accidental spills or too much effort. If you’re in the market for an adaptive cup for your child, then you’ve come to the right place.

Below are reviews of the top 5 adaptive cups for kids to help you find the right one for your little one’s needs. So let’s not waste any time and get started!

Product	Type	Spill-proof	Price
Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup	Rimless	Yes	$$$
Tommee Tippee Easiflow 360 Spill-Proof Toddler Cup	Rimless	Yes	$$$
Nuby 3 Piece No-Spill Cup with Flex Straw	With Straw	Yes	$$
Nuk Learner Sippy Cup	Sippy	Yes	$$$$
The First Years Take & Toss Spill-Proof Sippy Cups	Sippy	Yes	$

Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup

Kicking off our list with a super popular product among tens of thousands of parents, the Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup has a rimless spill-proof design that’s suitable for kids older than 6 months.

Available as a set of 2, you can get these cups either in green/blue or pink/purple color commons. Each cup holds about 7 ounces capacity, so it isn’t too much for younger children to handle.

Equipped with a dentist-recommended spoutless design, this adaptive cup allows drinking from anywhere around the rim like a regular cup to support normal muscle development. Not to mention, the 360-degree drinking edge helps eliminate spills.

The Munchkin Miracle Trainer Cup automatically seals when your kid is done drinking to further reduce the risk of spilling. The featured handles make it easy for little hands to grasp.

Made out of BPA-free plastic, this cup is safe for drinking. It’s also easy to clean since there are no extra parts or valves involved.

Pros

Made of BPA-free plastic
Easy to hold
Reliable sealing

Cons

No cover for traveling

Tommee Tippee Easiflow 360 Spill-Proof Toddler Cup

From the established brand Tommee Tippee, we have another excellent option for a rimless spill-proof adaptive cup. Their Easiflow Spill-Proof Cup is one of the simplest 360-degree cups your kid can use.

It’s spill-proof and leak-free, which means you don’t have to worry about cleaning drips and keeping your floors, cars, and handbags spotless. It even comes with a convenient travel lid for a mess-free ride.

Additionally, the Easiflow is a breeze when it comes to cleaning thanks to its one-piece design, the limited parts, and the easy-clean valve. Not to mention, you can safely throw it in your dishwasher.

Your kids will be able to easily drink as their instinct to press on the lid is encouraged. The 360-degree edge will then release the liquid with a simple touch of a lip.

Dentist-recommended, BPA-free, and dust-resistant, this adaptive cup is suitable for kids 1-year-old and up. It comes as a set of 2 with either an elephant/bear pattern or a whale/crocodile pattern.

Pros

Comes with a travel lid
Resists dust build-up
The lid is easy to clean

Cons

A few drops may leak

Nuby 3 Piece No-Spill Cup with Flex Straw

If you’re in the market for a reliable straw adaptive cup, then the Nuby No-Spill Cup with Flex Straw may be just what you need.

When your kid goes for a drink, the Touch Flo straw valve will allow the liquid to flow only if they do a squeeze and suck action. This way, the valve supports its no-spill feature.

The straw is made out of soft silicone straw, so it’s gentle on tender gums and emerging teeth. Additionally, the silicone straw is clear with hassle-free cleaning.

The Nuby No-Spill Cup with Flex straw has a contoured base of cup to enable little hands a secure grip. It’s available as a set of 3 with neutral, boy, and girl color combos.

Pros

Contoured design
Soft straw
The set contains 3 cups

Cons

Thicker drinks can be a bit hard to suck

Nuk Learner Sippy Cup

If you’re looking for an adaptive cup to help your kid transition smoothly from bottle to cup, then you may want to consider the Nuk Learner Sippy Cup.

This spill-proof design features a soft spout that’s very gentle on children’s’ gums. This is important for easier teaching how to drink from a spout.

It also features an air vent to help minimize the amount of air that gets swallowed. To provide a secure, strain-free grip, the cup is equipped with anti-slip handles that you can remove once your baby doesn’t need them.

Made out of BPA-free plastic, this cup is ideal for kids over 6 months old.

Pros

Great for transitioning from bottle to cup
Features air vents to reduce air swallowing
The handles are removable

Cons

A bit too pricey

The First Years Take & Toss Spill-Proof Sippy Cups

Last but not least, The First Years Take & Toss Spill-Proof Sippy Cups are an excellent choice for parents in need of budget-friendly adaptive cups for kids.

Available sets of 4,6, and 20 pieces, these cups are affordable enough that you can use them as disposable cups. But don’t worry, they’re also durable enough to serve as reusable cups.

You’ll probably appreciate how easy to clean these cups are, featuring a snap-on, valve-free lid. The lids of all the cups are interchangeable and spill-proof, which translates into more convenience.

Made out of plastic-free of BPA, PVC, and Phthalates, the Take & Toss sippy cups come with a bonus travel cap for outdoor adventures. Available in rainbow colors, these adaptive cups are dishwasher-safe.

Pros

Very affordable
Can be considered single-use or reusable
The lids are interchangeable

Cons

The lid pops off when thrown

Wrap Up

Choosing the best adaptive cups for kids can be confusing, this is why we included only the top-performing products on the market to make sure you land a great deal.

That being said, we recommend the Munchkin Miracle 360 Trainer Cup for kids learning how to drink using cups thanks to its reliable sealing and ease of use.

Best Chopsticks To Buy in 2022 – Top 5 Picks

Set The Table

If you love Asian food and you’re looking to switch from cheap, flimsy takeout chopsticks to high-quality ones that’ll indulge you in a more authentic and less messy eating experience, then this article is for you.

Today, we’re reviewing 5 of the best chopsticks to buy so you can compare different designs and decide which is most suited for your needs.

5 Best Chopsticks in 2022

finessCity Titanium Chopsticks

Kicking off our list with a super popular option, the finessCity chopsticks are made for anyone seeking premium craftsmanship and design.

Right off the bat, we love the included case. It has a narrow, tube-like shape that’s made of aluminum and does an excellent job protecting the chopsticks from breaking, being contaminated, or getting lost.

The strong aluminum case is available in multiple colors with a matte finish for a super sleek look. The chopsticks themselves are pure titanium, which means they’re more durable and reusable compared to wooden chopsticks.

Additionally, there’s no risk of toxic coating chipping off or sharp splinters coming off from the chopstick’s body so you don’t need to worry about accidental mouth injuries.

Not to mention, titanium is non-allergic, odorless, and non-corrosive, which makes it superior to stainless steel or metal as well.

The finessCity chopsticks are dishwasher-safe, rustproof, and 60% lighter than stainless steel. Moreover, the narrow end is rounded so children can use it safely.

Pros

Extremely durable
The case comes in many colors
Non-allergic and non-corrosive

Cons

Pricey for one pair only

Goldage Fiberglass Chopsticks

If you don’t like the idea of metal or wooden chopsticks and titanium ones are too out of budget, then you should consider the Goldage chopsticks.

Made of food-grade fiberglass, these chopsticks offer the perfect balance between style and sturdiness at a competitive price point.

They’re very lightweight and durable, so you don’t have to worry about them bending, melting, or cracking.

Besides being resistant to up to 356°F (180°C) high temperature, the Goldage chopsticks are certified to comply with the most strict food-contact standards including the US, California, UK, EU, Japan, Canada, Australia. It doesn’t have any sort of coating and it’s BPA-free.

Featuring a Chinese-style silhouette, the square body prevents the chopsticks from rolling on the table. The tips are also textured to offer you a better grip when picking up food.

The sleek black finish will keep its look for a long time, and there’s a 2-year warranty to make you feel more at ease.

Pros

Resist high temperatures
Textures tips for better grip
The squared body prevents rolling

Cons

Prone to chipping

Happy Sales HSCSS4 Chopsticks

If you’re in the market for an affordable yet reliable alternative to wooden chopsticks, this set of stainless steel chopsticks from Happy Sales can be exactly what you need.

Also, if you like having separate cutlery sets for different occasions, then these can be your everyday-use chopsticks.

These chopsticks are sold as a set of 5 pairs, so they’re a good option if you’re buying for the family. Keep in mind, however, that they’re not dishwasher-safe, so washing them should be by hand.

One feature we love about these chopsticks is their anti-slip design. The top part of the chopsticks is turned into spirals so you’ll have a firm grip on food with better control.

Additionally, there are ring indentations on the narrow ends of these chopsticks to ensure the food won’t slip off the chopsticks.

This design makes the Happy Sales chopsticks a fantastic choice for anyone still learning how to use chopsticks.

Pros

Budget-friendly
Spirals support firmer grip
Great for kids and beginners

Cons

Not resistant to high food temperatures

AOOSY Japanese Natural Wooden Chopsticks

A terrific compromise between cost and design, this chopsticks set comes in a black elegant box containing five pairs of elegant chopsticks.

They’re made out of Nanmu wood which has been used in China for centuries thanks to its resistance against decay and being non-reactive to humidity or temperature change.

As a result, these wooden chopsticks won’t crack, get moldy, or get damaged because of high or low temperatures.

Unlike cheaper, low-quality wooden chopsticks, these are polished using natural lacquer and natural paint, so it’s totally safe to put in your mouth. The surface has a subtle shine that makes it look more attractive.

The AOOSY chopsticks are smooth and comfortable to hold. They can also be easily washed in a dishwasher, which is always a plus.

Pros

Nanmu wood doesn’t mold or crack
Attractive look
Coated with a natural lacquer for safe use

Cons

The color tends to come off

Totally Bamboo Twist Chopsticks

Last but not least, these chopsticks from Totally Bamboo are ideal for anyone interested in a more eco-friendly option.

Bamboo is a sustainable resource that grows fast and requires no pesticides, clear-cutting, or artificial irrigation.

Made out of hand-twisted Moso bamboo, these chopsticks are very durable and easy to clean despite being not dishwasher-safe. You can just wash them by hand or use a damp cloth to wipe them down.

The twist detail offers a bit of grip support, while the 9.75-inch length is suitable for reaching into a deep bowl of steamy noodles.

Pros

Environmentally friendly
Easy to clean
Minimalist look

Cons

A bit slippery

How to Choose the Best Chopsticks to Buy

Here are the most important features to consider when shopping for the best chopsticks:

Material – besides durability, you need to make sure there aren’t any toxic chemicals that could adversely affect your health, such as BPA, PVC, and phthalates.
Design – in addition to looking attractive, it’s a good idea to include some anti-slip texturing for a firmer grip.
Cleaning method – being dishwasher-safe is super convenient, so be sure to check this in your chopsticks if you mind washing them by hand.

Wrap Up

There you have it, the 5 best chopsticks to buy in 2020. We recommend the finessCity Titanium Chopsticks if you’re looking for the highest possible quality when it comes to durability, design, and convenience.

However, if you’re trying to stick to a modest budget, then the AOOSY Japanese Natural Wooden Chopsticks can be a great alternative.