Eating utensil etiquette

Various customary etiquette practices exist regarding the placement and use of eating utensils in social settings.

When used in conjunction with a knife to cut and consume food in Western social settings, two forms of fork etiquette are common.

[1][2][3] Prior to the adoption of the fork, the custom in Europe was for all food to be conveyed to the mouth by the right hand (using a spoon, a knife, or fingers).

[4] The difference between the American and European styles has been used as plot point in fictional works, including the 1946 film O.S.S.

For other items, such as potatoes, vegetables or rice, the blade of the knife is used to assist or guide placement of the food on the back of the fork.

To taste a sauce before serving oneself, however, it is permissible to place a small piece of bread at the end of the fork for dipping.

[1][10] In contrast to the European hidden handle grip, in the American style the fork is held much like a spoon or a pen once it is transferred to the right hand to convey food to the mouth.

[7] In defense of the traditional American style, Judith Martin wrote, "Those who point out that the European manner is more efficient are right.

[15] In American dining etiquette, different placements are used when setting down the utensils to indicate whether a diner intends to continue eating or has finished.