Explanation
In Brazil, eating with the left hand is not inherently rude, but it can be seen as unhygienic or careless in formal dining settings, as the left hand is traditionally associated with handling non-food items like napkins or glasses. Most Brazilians are right-handed and use utensils, so using the left hand for eating might draw mild attention but is not a major faux pas. The rule is more relaxed compared to Middle Eastern or South Asian norms, where the left hand is strictly avoided for eating.
Local Tip
If you're dining formally, stick to using your right hand for utensils and keep your left hand on your lap or lightly resting on the table edge.
How it compares elsewhere
The left hand is considered unclean and reserved for bathroom hygiene; always eat with the right hand.
Eating with the left hand is strictly forbidden in Islamic tradition; use only the right hand for food.
Left-hand use is perfectly fine; chopsticks are the main concern, not which hand holds them.