A TV etiquette expert has developed a "soft crunch technique" aimed at reducing disruptive eating noises, particularly from crunchy snacks, in public spaces and shared environments. Laura Akano, who specializes in English etiquette, has created a 10-point plan to assist individuals who tend to snack noisily.
According to a poll conducted by crispbread maker Ryvita, 69% of UK adults consider inconsiderate noisy eating their primary annoyance. This sentiment surpasses other common irritations like loud music on public transport, snoring, and crying babies. The survey of 2,000 Britons also revealed that half of respondents would support a ban on loud food consumption in certain areas and would endorse "eat considerately" warnings on crunchy snack packaging.
Ms. Akano's "soft crunch etiquette" involves chewing crunchy snacks slowly with a closed mouth to minimize sound. She advises that this refined method prevents distracting or uncomfortable noise for those nearby. The technique also aims to maintain an elegant appearance while eating.
Additionally, Akano suggests a "three-finger rule" for picking up snacks, using only the thumb, index, and middle finger to maintain cleanliness and an elegant presentation.
The poll identified crisps as the noisiest snack, with 73% of participants voting them the loudest, followed by crackers, tortilla chips, and raw carrots. The research also indicated that eating crunchy foods in cinemas is considered a highly undesirable habit, ranking above eating smelly food in that specific setting, although the order was reversed for train journeys.
Further findings from the Ryvita poll show that eight in 10 people have argued with a partner about their eating habits at home, while less than half admit to being noisy eaters themselves. A spokesperson for Ryvita noted a growing intolerance among the public regarding where crunchy snacks are consumed, stating that "many people feel everyday etiquette is slipping."
Ms. Akano's advice extends to practical steps such as opening snack packaging slowly to avoid rustling, managing crumbs by eating over a plate or napkin, and taking smaller bites to prevent excessive noise and mess. She also suggests leveraging background noise, like music or conversation, to mask the sound of eating in environments where silence can amplify crunching. For certain settings, such as theatres, cinemas, quiet offices, and libraries, Akano recommends opting for softer snacks as a more considerate choice.
Ms. Akano previously gained media attention for teaching etiquette to pupils at the Cumberland School in east London, with the goal of improving their confidence and scholarship prospects. Her lessons encompassed posture, greetings, and social graces.
