Chopsticks are a staple in many kitchens, serving a multitude of purposes with a stylish flair. A great pair of chopsticks makes for an affordable and lightweight utensil perfect for everyday use or even travel.
Unfortunately, billions of disposable chopsticks are tossed into landfills each year. Purchasing bamboo chopsticks helps to reduce this number.
Bamboo itself is biodegradable. You can compost bamboo chopsticks or even repurpose them as garden markers!
You may also decide to purchase reusable chopsticks for your home. The planet will thank you for cutting down on your consumption and, in the long run, your wallet will be thanking you too.
Whether you choose to welcome disposable or reusable chopsticks into your home, bamboo is an eco-friendly alternative to other chopstick materials such as wood, plastic, or metal.
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What Are Bamboo Chopsticks?
Bamboo is a great alternative to wood, plastic, or metal for many reasons. Most notably, its environmental impacts.
Bamboo yields 20 times more than timber and matures 4-7 times quicker. It also bests wood by 35% in oxygen production while requiring 33% less water to grow.
If you are leaning towards metal chopsticks due to their sturdiness, then I’m happy to inform you that bamboo is 21% stronger than steel. This makes them incredibly durable and up for the task of handling your thickest of noodles and fattest filled dumplings.
Additionally, any products made by bamboo use parts of the bamboo plant that can be harvested without killing the plant.
Bamboo is often grown without fertilizers or pesticides so this organic material is superior to others through the entirety of its lifecycle.
Why You Should Use Bamboo Chopsticks
Bamboo also adds such a luxurious warmth to your home that alternatives just cannot compare to.
You should choose bamboo chopsticks over plastic or wood because they’re much grippier and can be more comfortable to hold. Bamboo also won’t react to foods that are acidic like metal chopsticks might.
Overall, bamboo chopsticks are more lightweight and lush than competing chopstick materials.
How to Use Bamboo Chopsticks
While you may typically reach for chopsticks to eat your favorite Asian cuisines, the uses of chopsticks are unlimited.
Bamboo chopsticks are a great tool for cooking as well. They allow you to reach into hot liquids like water or oil and pick up your food fast and efficiently without puncturing your food like a fork might or collecting oil as a spoon might.
How to Wash Bamboo Chopsticks
If you’ve decided to go the reusable chopsticks route, that’s awesome! Care for bamboo chopsticks is similar to your other wooden kitchen utensils. Be sure to hand wash with warm water and mild detergents as some detergents can be very harmful. You’ll also generally want to avoid soaking for long periods of time.
Though care instructions may be different from brand to brand, bamboo chopsticks are a relatively low-maintenance addition to your kitchen.
Pair with your favorite bamboo steamer for a delicious, visually appealing dinner you can feel good about.
