Japanese premium chopsticks in the 2022 test

The Japanese premium ch opsticks from JP Design made a very good impression in our test. The product comes in an attractive gift box and, in addition to the chopsticks, includes two trays for hygienic handling and an e-book with various sushi recipes. The chopsticks not only have an attractive, elegant look, but also a pleasant ergonomic design and a roughened surface to make it easier to pick up food. The chopsticks are also easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. Nevertheless, it should be mentioned that chopstick beginners will need some practice and patience to use them. Furthermore, the chemical odour of the inner cardboard leaves a slight feeling of uncertainty. This results from the bonding of the cardboard, is harmless according to the LFGB certificate and dissipates after a certain time.

ℹ️ Here we take a closer look at packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course also be ensured.

The Japanese premium chopsticks from JP Design arrived in a recycled cardboard box. The box was undamaged, but had to be opened with the help of a tool. Inside the box was the gift box containing the chopstick set, wrapped in plastic film. The film might not have been necessary, but it protects the gift box from dirt and scratches. This ensured complete product protection and the chopsticks were in perfect condition.
The packaging of the chopsticks is partially recyclable. In contrast, the plastic film cannot be recycled. Notwithstanding this, the presentation of the product makes a very good impression. Neither the chopsticks nor the gift box were damaged.

ℹ️ Most people’s first impression after unpacking is immediately memorable. Are the contents of the pack complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?

The gift box contained the chopsticks in a set of 2 including trays. Furthermore, the correct handling of the chopsticks was described in the enclosed instructions for use. Surprisingly, the printed QR code did not lead to further instructions, but to a 17-page e-book with sushi recipes. The contact information is printed on the product box and in the e-book. The customer is also referred to the seller’s email address in a small welcome letter in case of questions or suggestions. As a result, this is an exceptionally well thought-out way of sending a product.

ℹ️ Before we start the practical test, we take a close look at the product processing. How high quality are the materials used? Is the look and feel satisfactory?

First of all, it should be mentioned that the colour combination of black and gold looks very appealing and elegant. The chopsticks are made of plastic with elegant, golden metal-look accents at the top. In the lower area, the so-called pick-up area, the surface has been slightly roughened to provide a better grip. When pressure is applied, the chopstick material yields slightly and then returns to its original state, preventing immediate breakage. In addition, two trays are supplied to ensure hygiene and a tidy appearance when eating. The gift box, which can be used for further storage of the chopsticks, should be emphasised. It has a slight chemical odour that has not been transferred to the product. It also evaporates after a certain time. Apart from this, the well thought-out design keeps the individual parts in place with elasticated fastening straps. There are only concerns when placing parts that are not yet completely dry, as the recycled cardboard could soften.
JP Design has also thought about sustainability, as the chopsticks are dishwasher-safe and heat-resistant up to 180 °C. According to the manufacturer, the product does not lose its shape, colour, quality or design, so cleaning should be easy.

ℹ️ Our practical test is the most relevant and therefore the most important. Here, the product has to undergo a wide range of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test article.

We enjoyed eating with the Japanese premium chopsticks from JP Design when we tested them. At first, the weight in the hand and the material in the mouth took some getting used to for chopstick users. However, we soon got used to it, as the centre of gravity of the chopsticks to balance them between the fingers is quickly found and the food is picked up almost effortlessly thanks to the roughened surface. Otherwise, the rice was more difficult to grip. The product is therefore only suitable for chopstick beginners to a limited extent. In other words, the newly learnt coordination together with the slightly higher weight of the chopsticks could lead to difficulties.
The enclosed instructions explain how to use the chopsticks clearly with the help of pictures, but there is no English or multilingual version. The linked e-book with sushi recipes is a nice addition that rounds off the product perfectly as a gift.
The chemical odour of the gift box may be unsettling. However, the required food safety certificates are available for all product components and the chopsticks have a neutral odour. They are easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. How this works in practice would have to be determined in a long-term test. After the first dishwasher cycle, the product still had its original properties.

ℹ️ Finally, we look at how the product compares to the competition. Can it keep up with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend buying it? We also analyse consumer reviews and check whether the critical and positive reviews are actually justified.

On the Amazon platform, consumers have given the product an average rating of 4.6 stars. Some criticised the workmanship (sharp edges) of the chopsticks. The reviews also criticise the packaging of the set of 5. However, our test only refers to the set of 2. The dishwasher-suitability, however, receives both positive and negative reviews. On the other hand, many customers like the high-quality presentation of the product. In our practical test, we were able to confirm that the gift box makes a very good impression and that the chopsticks score highly in terms of both aesthetics and use. We did not find that the chopsticks felt uncomfortable due to sharp edges. We are unable to comment on dishwasher suitability, as this would require a practical test over a longer period of time.

Prices of up to €30 are charged on the internet for equivalent products. Very inexpensive products, on the other hand, are available for as little as €6. This means that the Japanese premium chopsticks are currently in the mid-price segment with a price of €12.90. Consequently, the price ratio is reasonable for the quality and the range of services you receive.

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