Specially crafted and sourced chopsticks are becoming a must have item for those who love food and beautiful things.

The History of Chopsticks is fascinating! They were invented in Neolithic China before the Shang dynasty, most likely 9000 years ago. The first chopsticks were used for cooking, stirring the fire, serving or seizing bits of food, not as eating utensils.

These nifty utensils are used by billions of people around the world – The Chinese have been wielding chopsticks since at least 1200 B.C., and by A.D. 500 the slender batons had swept the Asian continent from Vietnam to Japan.

After their humble beginnings as cooking utensils, capable of reaching deep into boiling pots of water or oil, around A.D. 400 people began eating with chopsticks. A population boom across China sapped resources and forced cooks to develop cost-saving habits. Crafty chefs figured out how to conserve fuel by cutting food into small pieces so it would cook more quickly. This new method of cooking made it unnecessary to have knives at the dinner table—a practice that complemented the non-violent teachings of Confucius.

Confucius (a vegetarian) thought knives’ sharp points evoked violence and warfare, killing the happy, contended mood that should reign during meals.

Wealthy diners would eat with ivory, jade, coral, brass or agate versions, while the most privileged used silver sets. It was believed the silver would corrode and turn black if it came into contact with poisoned food.

There has been a recent resurgence of using these ancient implements in kitchens & restaurants all over the world for their, accuracy, durability and versatility. Chopsticks aid in developing superior fine motor skills in food presentation- particularly for western kids and chefs, and they are so much fun to use in a shared table setting, particularly when kids get involved! Given that Australia neighbours with Asia and has adopted much of its diet and food culture – it makes sense that we should adopt this cultural practice to enhance our eating experience, regardless of age, gender, origin or occupation.

Empire Chopsticks have gone to great lengths to find the best chopsticks, rests and dipping bowls handpicked from around the world. They offer a large selection of luxury chopsticks with both retail and wholesale offerings for events and businesses. View the full range at EmpireChopsticks.com.au