Where are you required to eat using only your right hand?

Eating with one's right hand is a general rule of etiquette that applies in certain Middle Eastern, Asian and African countries, such as India and Morocco. There are a few different reasons why eating with the left hand is considered taboo in these cultures, and because it is considered so extremely rude, it is generally a good idea to avoid using the left hand to eat.

In most cases, though, the worst consequence an individual will suffer for eating with his or her left hand will be to appear rude and boorish. Lefties who are willing to suffer this kind of social humiliation may want to use their dominant hand while dining, but only after offering an explanation to the host and fellow dinner guests.