Dip and dunk

Whenever food is served with dips and sauces, there are rules to be followed. This will ensure that all diners get to enjoy their food without any qualms or getting queasy!

Whatever should be dipped into any sauce, ketchup, salsa, dressing and so on should be dipped in only once. It is inappropriate and unhygienic to put something that has been in one's mouth, back into a common dip.

Is it ok to race through a meal?

Relax and enjoy time with others. The food is not going to walk away. So take your time!

Don't fill your mouth with too much food.

Try to keep the same eating pace as your host, so that you all finish at the same time.

Too fast or too slow. Neither pace is recommended. You could be accused of being a glutton if you race along - or your host could wonder whether you like the food if you are too slow.

It is not a compliment when someone leans over and says ' You must've been hungry' or, ' Any problem? Not to your taste?'

How do you finish with a flourish?

• You should never let any cutlery, once used, ever touch the table again.
  
  
• Don't push your plate away when you're done eating. Wait until all are through.
  
  
• Never play with your silverware.
  
  
• Do not linger too long after the meal is over. After the dinner or party, keep the hosts in mind, and leave at an appropriate time.
  
  
• And always remember to thank the host. Showing gratitude is the key to being a gracious guest. A handshake and a polite "Thank you" provide an adequate conclusion to the occasion.
  
  
• Follow-up   Always send a "Thank you" note the next day. If you just cannot find the time for this, call the next day and express your appreciation.