Explanation
In Germany, there is no cultural stigma against eating with the left hand; both hands are used interchangeably at the table, and cutlery is the norm for most meals. The left-hand taboo is primarily associated with Islamic and Hindu cultures, not German customs.
Local Tip
Feel free to use either hand for bread or snacks, but always use a knife and fork for main courses, holding the fork in your left hand and knife in your right.
How it compares elsewhere
Using the left hand for eating is considered unclean, as it is traditionally used for hygiene purposes.
Eating with the left hand is avoided in traditional settings, especially when sharing communal dishes.
In Muslim-majority areas, the left hand is considered impure for eating, though in urban or non-religious contexts it may be overlooked.