In a new survey of 18-49 year olds, half of the 1,500 respondents claim mealtimes have become far less formal, with 75% saying that the rules of table manners which their parents or grandparents adhered to are now outdated and stuffy.
Some 45% say that there is no longer an expectation to use a knife and fork for good table manners. The same number says that always sitting around a table together to eat is a thing of the past.
Meanwhile, 38% say using a napkin or serviette is also outmoded, and 22% say it is no longer taboo to get messy while eating.
Saying thank you for your meal (39%), not slouching (39%), and asking to leave the table (42%) are all diminishing traditions according to the report, and 46% of those surveyed claim it is no longer common practice to wait for everyone to have their food before starting. However new table etiquette includes not using phones and not vaping at the dinner table.
The survey was conducted on behalf of food company Vivera to coincide with its launch of plant-based kebabs.
Top: In a new survey about table manners, 45% say that ‘always using a knife and fork’ is an outmoded and stuffy tradition.
