Islamic Eating Manners
Islamic eating manners are the table manners and rules of etiquette for eating as prescribed by Islam, the largest community and fastest growing religion in the world. Eating is considered a very important daily social activity for Muslims, who GeneRally eat at least three meals in a day. Much attention is paid to eating manners in Islam as eating is not only very important to reflecting a person's personality, but also to reflecting the society too.
Meals
prophet Muhammad recommended eating as a social activity. Much attention is to be paid to eating mannerisms, whether a Muslim eats alone or with friends and family. Muslims are to give credit to God when starting a meal and express thankfulness to God at the end of meal for providing it.
Eating with right hand is emphasized and using three fingers is recommended. Additionally, keeping the mouth closed while eating is another important manner. Eating on ground is preferred, for those who cannot sit on the ground, a table can be used.
It is crucial that disapproval or dislike of a food not be expressed while eating. Instead, the unwanted parts should be eaten, then left aside. Muslims are advised to eat the whole food served because it cannot be known what part of the food is blessed.
A Muslim should also brush teeth before and after each meal.
Chewing food
Chewing food is recommended in Islam because the process of digestion of food begins in mouth. It is stated that, if possible, food should be chewed 40 to 70 times to enjoy its taste and to digest it better. Longer period of chewing means smaller pieces of food particles and much more saliva, which helps in digestion.
Drinking manner
It is recommended that a glass or jar of liquid not be drunk in one gulp. Two or three gulps while drinking is recommended. The right hand should be used and thanks should be expressed to God at the start of drinking. According to Ibn Abbas, exhaling in the glass should be avoided.
Avoiding Gluttony
In Islam, it is always recommended to eat in moderation. One is encouraged to eat as much as is needed during different meals. The suggestion not to overeat is similar to the ideals expressed by many other different cultures and religions.
References
http://www.islamicbulletin.com/newsletters/issue_16/diet.aspx