Chopsticks, chiefly used for Asian meals, are versatile, inexpensive and a great addition to almost any kitchen. Bamboo Chopsticks have been gaining popularity and now people are confused between bamboo chopsticks and wooden chopsticks. It may not seem to be a great deal but the type of chopstick you choose can have a lasting impact on the environment and on your health.
How wooden chopsticks are bad for the environment?
No doubt wooden chopsticks are common but their popularity is declining as people are more inclined towards their environment than ever. Trees take a very long time to grow, nearly 30 to 50 years, and they sometimes do not grow back when they are cut down. Therefore, wooden chopsticks are not a sustainable choice, especially with the increasing demand. Cutting down trees would pose a major threat to the environment as trees act as the sinks of carbon. They play a role in removing harmful pollutants from the air. Moreover, wood is more susceptible to contamination(prone to mold and deterioration) compared to bamboo.
Why is bamboo good for chopsticks?
Bamboo is a sustainable material widely used in the production of cutlery. It is the fastest-growing plant that is earth-friendly, it grows naturally at a rate of up to 4 feet per day and does not require fertilizers to grow, and even regenerates from its own roots. Bamboo is even stronger than steel when it comes to tensile strength (which means it can withstand more tension or stretching pressure before breaking.)
Bamboo chopsticks are non-toxic, healthy, and safe to use as bamboo has natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties so there would be no fear of harmful bacteria growing on them. So it is safe to use the bamboo chopsticks.