Family of Four Dies After Using Wooden Chopsticks: Is Your Kitchenware Safe?

A recent case has resurfaced involving an entire family that died from liver cancer after using the same wooden chopsticks for an extended period without replacing them.

According to Taiwan’s CTi News, the head nurse in the Clinical Toxicology Department at Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital recently discussed the importance of regularly cleaning and replacing wooden chopsticks in a medical program.

The nurse cited a 2013 case in China where a family of four developed cancer and later died, stating, “This is not an exaggeration. The reason this family developed liver cancer was their continued use of moldy chopsticks.”

Using moldy kitchen utensils over time can lead to the accumulation of aflatoxins, which are classified as a Group 1 carcinogen. These carcinogens build up with continued use and can ultimately result in liver cancer.

Wooden utensils, dishes, and cooking tools can crack with extended use, creating gaps where dust and mold can easily collect. Tan advised that the items should be discarded and replaced immediately if mold or other visible contaminants are spotted.

The nurse also offered tips on properly cleaning wooden chopsticks. For bamboo chopsticks, it is essential to scrub along the grain, both vertically and horizontally, to ensure thorough cleaning.

Even with thorough cleaning, complete safety is not guaranteed. In an interview with Health 2.0, nutritionist Xuhui Huang from Wu Che Hospital noted, “Aflatoxins are produced by mold and cannot be removed by washing or boiling. These toxins are extremely potent, with toxicity 68 times greater than arsenic and 100 times greater than cyanide. Consuming a large amount at once can lead to acute liver and kidney failure, which can be fatal.”

Choosing the right materials for chopsticks is also crucial. Stainless steel chopsticks, particularly those made from 304 stainless steel, are highly recommended. Unlike melamine or plastic chopsticks, which can warp under heat and are not suitable for immersion in boiling water or pots, stainless steel maintains its shape and durability even at high temperatures.