toothpicks

Toothpicks are small, slender sticks used to remove food particles from teeth, to pick up bites of food, or as decorative picks for appetizers and cocktails. They typically measure about 40 to 75 millimeters in length and have a pointed tip on one end, with a blunt or capped opposite end.

Materials and design vary. Wooden toothpicks are the most common, usually made from birch, aspen, or bamboo. Plastic or metal variants exist, though plastic toothpicks are less common today due to environmental concerns. Many wooden toothpicks are plain, while others are flavored or coated with edible oils, mint, or cinnamon for added aroma or taste.

Manufacturing involves slicing thin wood into sticks or turning small dowels on lathes, followed by cutting to length and sterilization. Some toothpicks are color-treated or printed for branding or decorative purposes.

Uses encompass dental hygiene, food presentation, and beverage service. For hygiene, toothpicks assist with removing small food particles after meals, though they are not a substitute for brushing and flossing. In culinary settings, they function as skewers for hors d’oeuvres and can be used to hold bite-sized items together. In bars and catering, they serve as picks for cocktails, fruit, or garnishes.

Safety and environment: toothpicks can pose choking or puncture hazards if mishandled, and should be disposed of properly. Wooden and bamboo variants are generally biodegradable, while plastic ones contribute to plastic waste. Some jurisdictions regulate littering of toothpicks or encourage compostable options.