Etiquette Expert Sparks Debate Over Banana-Eating Methods

An etiquette expert’s recent comments about how to eat bananas have ignited considerable discussion online. William Hanson, who authored “Just Good Manners: A Quintessential Guide to Courtesy, Charm, Grace and Decorum,” released on May 27, has focused on the nuances of manners surrounding everyday foods.

Hanson, serving as the executive director of The English Mather in London—which is recognized as a leading etiquette and protocol research center—has captured significant attention on social media. He boasts over 6 million followers across platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

In a recent video, Hanson asserted that the “only way” to eat a banana is using utensils. He noted, “No, we don’t pick it up and peel it like a primate.” Instead, he suggested a process that involves cutting both ends of the banana, peeling it with a knife, and then consuming it delicately.

This unconventional advice certainly stirred reactions, with over 200,000 views and a flurry of comments following the clip’s release. Some responses were quite humorous. One viewer remarked, “I don’t cook extra for the bananas, William,” while another quipped, “That’s enough, William! Timeout!”

Hanson has previously shared similar insights regarding how to eat grapes, rice, and peas, but his banana protocol might seem more peculiar to American audiences than British ones.

Diane Gottsman, a Texas-based etiquette expert, weighed in on the matter, noting that in the U.S., using hands for banana consumption is widely accepted. She acknowledged that different cultural norms exist, emphasizing that in formal settings, it’s customary to peel the banana completely before eating.

Ultimately, Gottsman praised Hanson as a lively personality and suggested that individuals should adapt their eating habits according to the context. “The best thing to do is observe the host and follow their lead,” she advised.