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There are many reasons why people like eating with chopsticks. For some, it’s all about having a more authentic dining experience. For others, it might be because they’re trying to lose weight. But like the discussion on plastic straws, do consider using reusable chopsticks to help save on costs and be more environmentally-friendly.
What are the best reusable chopsticks that you can buy right now? These products are sure to wow you.
- Goldage Fiberglass Dishwasher Safe Chopsticks
- Petty Edison Training Chopsticks for Children
- Senior ICare Chopstick Helper
- Greata Reusable Metal Chopsticks
- Deco Collapsible Stainless Steel Chopsticks
- HuaLan Fiberglass Alloy Chopsticks Series
- Totally Bamboo Twist Reusable Bamboo Chopsticks
- CONCORD 10 Pairs Chinese Ebony Wenge Wood Organic Chopsticks Set
- Kotobuki Wakasa Lacquer Japanese Artisan Chopsticks
- HealthyLivingLabs Strong Lightweight Titanium Chopsticks
So how do you choose the best reusable chopsticks for you? Read on and find out.
The Best Reusable Chopsticks and Why They’re Better
The thing with reusable chopsticks is that there is a world of choices that will be perfect for you. You can buy one that fits your budget, made with the material that you like, and safe for use. You can even find a pair of chopsticks for everyday use and another that looks beautiful.
So what are the products that you should first look at?
1. Goldage Fiberglass Dishwasher Safe Chopsticks
The Goldage Fiberglass Dishwasher Safe Chopsticks is made with fiberglass, which makes it lightweight, easy to use, a breeze to clean, and a cinch to hold. These chopsticks measure 9.25 inches and come in a variety of designs, including floating flowers, herb leaf, evergreen bamboo, koi fish, reflection, and Kalanchoe blossfeldiana. Apart from these Japanese-themed designs, there are also Korean, Chinese, and American styles that you can choose from.
The fiberglass material used in these chopsticks makes it more durable than bamboo or wood products. The manufacturer claims that their chopsticks are 20 times sturdier than those made with other materials. It can even withstand the extreme heat of up to 356 degrees Fahrenheit. Pop it in the dishwasher for easy cleaning–it will not crack, bend, or melt.
What’s more, fiberglass is smooth, so there are no cracks or an uneven surface to worry about. The smooth surface of fiberglass makes it safe from germ and mold growth.
The Goldage Fiberglass Dishwasher Safe Chopsticks also does not use any lacquer or paint, unlike most bamboo and wooden chopsticks. The problem with lacquer and paint is that they will chip or strip off over time, so you end up eating chemicals. This product also has textured tips, which helps you get a better grip on your food.
Another feature you’d like about these chopsticks is that they have square bodies, which prevents them from rolling away from you when you set them on your bowl or plate. It’s also balanced and very lightweight, so even beginners can have an easy time with it.
With a promised two- to five-year lifespan, this set of five chopsticks is a steal as it sells for less than $16.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Easy to use
- Easy to hold
- Lightweight
- Durable
Cons
- Designs are just etched into the material and may be hard to see for some people.
Why It Is Better
Fiberglass is one of the best materials for chopsticks because of its naturally smooth surface. You can expect to use this set of five chopsticks for a long time.
2. Petty Edison Training Chopsticks for Children
If you have kids who want to try using chopsticks to eat, then get the Petty Edison Training Chopsticks for Children. These seven-inch plastic chopsticks have a silicon ring above it that keeps the chopsticks together as well as loops where your child can put his or her fingers through.
Your kids will be able to learn using chopsticks with this product. It’s short enough so that it’s easy to control. What makes this ideal for younger tots is the shorter length and the cartoon character that sits atop of the sticks. It’s also very lightweight. Parents who have bought this product attest to the fact that their kids were able to master using it in just a few minutes.
The Petty Edison Training Chopsticks for Children is a well-designed training tool for those who want to learn how to eat with chopsticks. It costs around $8 to $9.
Pros
- Cute cartoon character and easy handling makes mealtimes more fun for kids
- Can be given away as a gift
- Easy to use
- Durable
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Suitable for kids who are right-handed because of the location of the loops
Why It Is Better
This product is an excellent way to teach kids how to eat with a chopstick properly. The cartoon character makes mealtimes more fun for the little one.
3. Senior ICare Chopstick Helper
The Senior ICare Chopstick Helper is an excellent product for the elderly or those who want to learn how to eat with chopsticks but are shy about using those designed for kids. If you have teens who are interested in learning how to use chopsticks but are turned off by the cartoon characters found on those designed for kids, this product will be ideal. It’s also a good product for those who have problems controlling their hand movements, or those suffering from arthritis.
The Senior ICare Chopstick Helper includes a set of wooden chopsticks and a plastic helper. The helper is specially designed to make it easier to pick up food without too much effort. It also accommodates chopsticks of different lengths. The included chopsticks are replaceable, so you can just pop in chopsticks of your choice.
Both the helper and the chopsticks are dishwasher safe. The plastic used for the helper is BPA free. This product sells for around $13.
Pros
- Perfect gift for the elderly and older kids
- Durable
- Easy to clean and use
- Replaceable chopsticks
Cons
- Might need some time to get used to
- Expensive
Why It Is Better
These chopsticks can aid those who are still learning how to use chopsticks, as well as those who have debilitating conditions in their hands. It doesn’t have cartoon characters, so it doesn’t look funny when grandma uses it.
4. Greata Reusable Metal Chopsticks
If you are a fan of Korean dramas, you have undoubtedly seen the lead stars wolf down a bowl of ramen with metal chopsticks. However, most people find Korean chopsticks challenging to use at first because it’s difficult to find the right grip, and these flat metal chopsticks can be slippery.
Well, not the Greata Reusable Metal Chopsticks. These chopsticks are made with 304 stainless steel, a food-grade metal that does not rust. Because of its rust-resistant properties, these chopsticks are bound to be with you for a long time.
They are also non-slip, ensuring you get a secure grip on whatever food you’re going to pick up. Unlike the round Korean variety, these chopsticks have a square body. What’s more, the chopsticks do not have any wax or paint on them, so you can be sure that you are not eating chemicals.
The Greata Reusable Metal Chopsticks does have laser engraved designs on both ends. And if you are worried about handling hot food with these sticks, don’t be. These chopsticks are hollow inside, which slows down the transfer of heat. A set of five pairs of these chopsticks sells for around $11.
Pros
- Easy to use and clean
- Lightweight, making it very easy to hold
- Food-grade stainless steel makes it safe and durable
Cons
- More slippery than wooden chopsticks
Why It Is Better
Metal chopsticks might sound counterintuitive to some. You are handling hot food, but this one doesn’t get too hot when you use it.
5. Deco Collapsible Stainless Steel Chopsticks
The Deco Collapsible Stainless Steel Chopsticks comes in a set of four pairs of chopsticks. The set also includes a carrying pouch. These food-grade stainless steel chopsticks can be twisted apart, so it doesn’t take up too much space in your bag or backpack. You can finally take your chopsticks wherever you go because these are portable.
They are dishwasher safe, so you do not have to worry about washing it after use. This set sells for around $9.
Pros
- Value for money
- Easy to use and clean
- Elegant looking
- Take it everywhere with you
Cons
- Might be more slippery than wooden chopsticks
- The chopsticks tend to unscrew even while you’re eating
Why It Is Better
These collapsible chopsticks come apart so you can store them in a smaller pouch. It doesn’t take up too much room, so you can easily put it into your bags when traveling or eating out.
6. HuaLan Fiberglass Alloy Chopsticks Series
The HuaLan Fiberglass Alloy Chopsticks Series includes five pairs in the set. What sets these fiberglass chopsticks from other products we have suggested so far is that each pair has a different color: red, green, orange, blue, and white.
You can buy this for your family, so you don’t have to use other people’s chopsticks. Each member of your brood will have their own colored chopsticks. It measures 9.6 inches long.
The food-grade fiberglass material means that you don’t have to worry about paint or lacquer chipping off and mixing with your food. It’s not absorbent, so there is a minimal chance of food sticking on these.
The HuaLan Fiberglass Alloy Chopsticks Series has a hexagonal design for its chopstick, which makes it easier to grasp and secures food in place. It also has a grainy texture that makes it non-slip.
These chopsticks also have excellent heat insulation, which helps to protect your hands from getting burned. This product is dishwasher safe, as well, as it can withstand extreme temperatures of up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, or double the boiling point of water. The company has other sets with different designs that can help you tell the chopsticks apart.
Further, these are very durable chopsticks that will not crack or bend. All that for around $9.
Pros
- Great for families who wants every member to have a personal pair
- Fiberglass material ensures that the chopsticks are durable
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- May not be as dishwasher safe as the manufacturer claims
Why It Is Better
Each member of your family can have their personal pair without worrying about getting mixed up and having your chopsticks used by another. The fiberglass material ensures that it’s easy to clean and use.
7. Totally Bamboo Twist Reusable Bamboo Chopsticks
Chopsticks are usually available with round, square, or hexagonal body. For something that you’re going to use very often, these shapes can be a bit boring. The Totally Bamboo Twist Reusable Bamboo Chopsticks breaks from the mold by featuring flamboyant twists. Each stick is twisted by hand, giving this product a unique aesthetic while making it easier for you to pick up food and to grip.
The Totally Bamboo Twist Reusable Bamboo Chopsticks comes in a set of five chopsticks, each measuring about 9.75 inches long. You can use these chopsticks repeatedly, after cleaning them with soap and water or wiping it down with a damp cloth. You can get all that when you buy this set for around $14.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly
- Bamboo is a sustainable, durable material
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Not dishwasher safe
- You cannot soak it in water
Why It’s Better
The beauty of bamboo goes beyond the natural characteristics that they have, but also because it is a whole lot friendlier to the environment. But what sets this product apart is the twisting design that it has. These are also longer than the usual personal chopsticks, making it easier to grab food when sitting on a bigger table.
8. CONCORD 10 Pairs Chinese Ebony Wenge Wood Organic Chopsticks Set
Typically, Chinese-made chopsticks are more affordable than those made elsewhere. The CONCORD 10 Pairs Chinese Ebony Wenge Wood Organic Chopsticks Set is proof of that. With 10 pieces in the set, it has a price tag of less than $10.
That low price is not an indicator of its quality. These chopsticks are made with natural wenge wood, which makes it very durable. It lasts a long time too: the manufacturer claims that you can wash these chopsticks more than 1,000 times. With its rectangular shape, you can easily pick up food from your plate.
Each piece in the CONCORD 10 Pairs Chinese Ebony Wenge Wood Organic Chopsticks Set measures 10 inches long. They are coated with a food-grade oil to help keep the water out.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Good quality wooden chopsticks
- Comfortable and very handy
Cons
- Might have a strong wood polish smell for some people
Why It’s Better
If you have a big family or are planning to host a sushi party, then these reusable chopsticks are for you. Affordable here means spending less than a dollar for each pair of chopsticks.
9. Kotobuki Wakasa Lacquer Japanese Artisan Chopsticks
Who says chopsticks only have to be functional? The Kotobuki Wakasa Lacquer Japanese Artisan Chopsticks shows that beauty and function can come together. These chopsticks are handmade by Japanese craftsmen, who apply layers and layers of lacquer on top-quality wood. The chopsticks are then polished or carved. Each pair of chopsticks has a unique design.
Holding these chopsticks is easy because of the textured tips. Most people note that there is heft in these chopsticks, which make it easier to grip.
Pros
- Each pair of chopsticks is a work of art
- Top-quality materials and workmanship
Cons
- Expensive
- Not dishwasher safe
Why It’s Better
For some, dining is an experience. These chopsticks might cost a lot of money, but they are beautiful. If anything, you can use these chopsticks as a great conversation starter when you eat out.
10. HealthyLivingLabs Strong Lightweight Titanium Chopsticks
The HealthyLivingLabs Strong Lightweight Titanium Chopsticks uses a not-so-common material for its product: titanium. This metal is stronger and lighter than aluminum, and it does not rust or corrode.
The manufacturer claims that titanium doesn’t affect the taste or aroma of the food you’re eating. It’s also non-allergenic. These rounded chopsticks measure nine inches long and weigh only half an ounce, and they sell for around $15.
Pros
- Titanium is an excellent material for chopsticks
- Durable and lightweight
- Easy to clean and use
Cons
- Expensive
- Might be too metallic in looks for some
Why It’s Better
If you’re looking for a pair of chopsticks that will last a long time, then these would be ideal for you. These chopsticks are durable yet lightweight, which makes it easy to use.
The Reusable (yet Notable!) Chopsticks That Didn’t Make the Cut
Apart from these choices, there are some notable reusable chopsticks that you can consider.
The HuaLan Porcelain Ceramic Chopsticks, for one, is made with bone china. These are made using high temperatures of up to 2,372 degrees Fahrenheit. These ceramic chopsticks are very beautiful and shiny, but because of the material, they may easily break. They are also not suitable for the dishwasher.
There’s also the GiftTree Engraved Chopsticks–an excellent gift for newlyweds or couples. These wooden chopsticks are made more elegant with a sterling silver handle, which you can engrave for free. However, it might be a bit too expensive. This set of two will set you back around $55.
Meanwhile, if you’re looking for the fun factor in your chopsticks, then you should get these Lightsaber Chopsticks. Imagine making any Star Wars fan drool with envy as you pick up a California maki with these chopsticks. It might not be dishwasher safe, and it may not be recommended for use with soup, but it works and can light up your parties.
But Why Should You Avoid Using Disposable Chopsticks?
Those innocent-looking pieces of sticks that you use to eat everything from ramen to meatballs and then throw away immediately afterward have a lot of adverse effects.
Did you know that, according to the New York Times, China reported that they manufacture about 57 billion pairs of disposable chopsticks every year? To make that many pairs, they cut down 3.8 million trees. All those lost trees can spell problems for the rest of the world, according to this article. This includes global warming, the loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and severe flooding, among many others.
What’s more, the prices of disposable chopsticks have risen since the mid-2000s. China, the leading exporter of the world’s disposable chopsticks, has levied taxes on these products, as well as making legislative changes that make them increasingly more expensive to produce. Today, restaurants are looking into using reusable chopsticks because they save more money over the long term than just giving out disposable ones.
More than the cost and the environmental destruction, there are social and health problems as well. According to the Epoch Times, disposable chopsticks from China are infused with chemicals when they are made. And they are manufactured in unsanitary conditions. What’s more, these are made by prisoners in labor camps.
Moreover, a study found that disposable chopsticks had heavy metals such as copper, manganese, and zinc. These minerals can cause harmful changes in your nervous system and may even cause Parkinson’s disease or affect your lungs.
But Are Reusable Chopsticks Any Better?
One cause of concern is the use of melamine in some reusable plastic products. Melamine is thought to cause cancer when ingested in large amounts. Melamine chopsticks might be soluble in water over time. However, you will need to include more than 0.2 milligrams per kilo of your body weight. That means, if you weigh 82 kilograms, you can safely induce around 16 milligrams of melamine without any negative effects on your body.
It is important to note that most manufacturers now are making sure that they use safe materials for their products. It has to be safe, food-grade, and safe from harmful chemicals.
How to Choose the Best Reusable Chopsticks
Not all reusable chopsticks are equal, and some have materials to avoid. What are these materials, and what other considerations should you consider when choosing your own reusable chopsticks?
1. Material
Like any product, it is important to know what materials are being used for your reusable chopsticks. For one, you might want to stay clear of melamine, as explained above.
- Food grade plastics are classified under high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET or PETE). These are resistant to chemicals and heat. Food grade plastic is also easy to clean and durable.
- Food grade stainless steel, or 304-grade stainless steel, are certified to be safe for food storage, preparation, and dining. It should not rust, corrode, or oxidize.
- Bamboo is an all-natural material for chopsticks. It has antibacterial property, according to this study. Some articles recommend washing bamboo chopsticks and other cookware with soapy water to keep them clean and let the bamboo’s antibacterial properties do its work. Bamboo is also sustainable. It grows very fast and is readily available.
- Fiberglass is a durable and lightweight material that is also food-grade.
2. Length and Purpose
Chopsticks come in varying lengths. Shorter ones, such as the Goldage Fiberglass Dishwasher Safe Chopsticks, measure around 9.25 inches and are ideal for picking up fine food because the lightweight and short length make them easier to control. Beginners should also start with shorter chopsticks.
There are longer chopsticks that allow you to share food around a large table. Those with big hands might have an easier time with these chopsticks.
3. Price
Reusable chopsticks last a long time, and they can be reused for years on end. But you should also be ready to replace them when needed. Fiberglass, for instance, is glass encased in resin. Over time, the resin will wear off and come apart. Meanwhile, bamboo chopsticks will splinter and break as time goes.
When it comes to pricing, there are chopsticks for every budget. There are sets of 10 that costs as much as one intricately designed pair of chopsticks. If you are looking to use chopsticks for your daily meals, then you might want to choose chopsticks that come in sets.
And then some go beyond just the basics. Artisan chopsticks are made in smaller quantities and might involve craftsmen and artists putting their talents into good use or tedious and time-consuming processes. These chopsticks are often intricately designed and may be a beauty to behold, but they also come with a significantly higher price tag.
Nom Nom Nom Nom with the Best Reusable Chopsticks for You
Eating is a part of life, and over the years, it’s become more than just a necessity: it’s now an experience. The best reusable chopsticks can bring enjoyment, authenticity, and even healthier eating practices to the table. A lot of food-safe materials are available–from ABS-free plastics, eco-friendly bamboo, sleek fiberglass, or durable metal. Pricing ranges from less than a dollar per pair of chopsticks to something more expensive.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a pair and enjoy.