Eating in public is common, but certain foods can be messy, smelly, or embarrassing to consume in social settings. Whether you’re at work, on public transport, or in a social gathering, here are some foods you should avoid eating in public.
1. Foods with Strong Odors
Some foods have a pungent smell that can make others uncomfortable. These include:
- Boiled eggs – The sulfuric smell can be overwhelming.
- Garlic-heavy dishes – Leaves a strong aftertaste and odor.
- Fish (especially canned tuna or dried fish) – The smell lingers long after you finish eating.
Tip: If you must eat these foods, chew gum or use mouth fresheners afterward.
2. Extra Messy Foods
Certain foods are difficult to eat neatly and can leave stains on your clothes or hands. Examples include:
- Spaghetti or noodles – Slurping can be loud and messy.
- Ribs or chicken wings – Requires eating with your hands, which can be greasy.
- Burgers loaded with sauces – Can drip and leave a mess.
Tip: If you must eat them, use napkins and be mindful of spills.
3. Loud and Crunchy Foods
Loud chewing sounds can be distracting and annoying to people around you. Some examples include:
- Chips and crackers – The loud crunching can be unpleasant in quiet settings.
- Carrots and apples – Can make a loud snapping sound when bitten.
- Popcorn – The constant chewing and occasional kernel-stuck-in-teeth struggle can be embarrassing.
Tip: Take smaller bites to minimize noise.
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4. Foods That Are Hard to Eat Gracefully
Some foods require too much effort or can make you look awkward while eating. Examples include:
- Corn on the cob – Biting into it can be messy, leaving kernels stuck in your teeth.
- Shellfish (crab, shrimp, lobster) – Requires peeling and can be time-consuming.
- Large sandwiches or burritos – Taking big bites can get messy fast.
Tip: Cut these foods into smaller portions before eating.
5. Foods That Are Too Spicy
Spicy foods can cause runny noses, sweating, or uncontrollable coughing, making public eating uncomfortable. Avoid:
- Extra hot chili peppers – Can cause a strong reaction.
- Spicy soups or noodles – Can lead to sweating and sniffles.
- Wasabi and horseradish – Can cause an intense burning sensation.
Tip: If you’re unsure about spice levels, start with a small portion.
6. Foods That Stain Easily
Eating certain foods in public can leave stains on your clothes or hands, making it embarrassing. These include:
- Tomato-based pasta sauces – Can easily splatter.
- Beetroot and pomegranate – Can stain fingers and lips.
- Turmeric-based dishes – Leaves yellow stains that are hard to remove.
Tip: Wear dark-colored clothes or use extra napkins when eating these foods.
7. Foods That Require Too Many Utensils
When eating in public, convenience matters. Avoid foods that need too much cutting, peeling, or assembling, such as:
- Whole roasted chicken or large steaks – Cutting them can be inconvenient.
- Pomegranates and oranges – Peeling takes time and can be messy.
- Fondue or dips – Can cause accidental spills.
Tip: Opt for pre-cut or bite-sized versions of these foods.
Final Thoughts
While there’s no strict rule against eating any food in public, it’s best to be considerate of others. Avoiding messy, smelly, or loud foods can help maintain good etiquette in social settings.
