Toothpick Dispenser & Holder

Toothpick Holders: What You Need to Know

From bourbon to cinnamint, modern toothpicks are available in various flavors to fulfill utility purposes and satisfy taste buds. These items are an excellent way to improve the end of a customer's time at your business. For centuries, toothpicks have been a key component of meal service, and although toothpick dispensers aren't yet a staple in foodservice establishments, more commercial dining businesses have recently begun implementing toothpick holders. This equipment is more sanitary and practical than leaving floss out for patrons.

As more operations realize the demand for toothpicks, toothpick dispensers are steadily becoming a common sight in eateries. These pieces of equipment can now be found in bars, hotels, restaurants, and more. The simple yet effective design of toothpicks makes them perfect for post-meal cleanup. Toothpick holders are a sanitary way to house these amenities until they're used while giving consumers easy access. This smallware is an excellent way to end a meal.

Common Questions About Toothpick Dispensers

What materials are toothpick holders available in?

Toothpick dispensers are generally made of acrylic, melamine, or plastic, though some are available with a wooden finish. Select the material based on the effort you're willing to put into cleaning it, as well as how well it fits the rest of your establishment's aesthetic.

Should you invest in a manual or automatic toothpick dispenser?

Manual toothpick holders house toothpicks for patrons in the open, and users simply select a toothpick without having to push a button or twist a side knob, which are common configurations for automatic toothpick holders. Automatic toothpick dispensers are more sanitary than manual options because they fully house toothpicks, dispensing them one at a time. This prevents users' hands from coming into contact with other toothpicks and spreading germs.

What does it mean if your plastic toothpick dispenser is BPA free?

BPA stands for Bisphenol A – a basic chemical building block involved in the manufacturing of polycarbonate resins. Polycarbonate is a versatile, common material used in the foodservice industry, and it can be found in products such as beverage pitchers, drinking tumblers, food storage containers, and more. Because it's resistant to stains, polycarbonate that contains BPA is used by many manufacturers. Several authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, have approved BPA for use in applications of direct food contact. However, some areas require products with BPA to explicitly state that exposure to the chemical can cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. When some manufacturers label their products as BPA free, it's a guarantee that you won't incur any negative side effects from exposure, though many believe BPA has no harmful effects. For additional information on BPA, you can refer to the Environmental Protection Agency American Plastics Council, the International Food and Information Council, or the American Chemistry Council.