Moustache Maintenance: The Foods to Avoid This Movember
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As Movember takes over Britain’s faces once again, men across the country are proudly growing out their moustaches for a good cause. By this stage of the month, many are beginning to notice their facial hair getting fuller, which can make mealtimes a little trickier.
From creamy soups that stick to your upper lip to pasta sauces that always seem to end up where they should not, food and facial hair do not always make the best combination.
From his own moustache experience, Sam Richards, Recipe Development Manager at food box delivery service HelloFresh, has identified the foods that are most difficult to eat with a moustache and shared his practical advice, to help those taking part in Movember enjoy their meals with confidence.
Spaghetti Bolognese
Few dishes pose a greater threat to a Movember moustache than a bowl of spaghetti. Sam says, “Spag bol is a moustache’s worst nightmare.”
“Long strands of pasta coated in a rich tomato sauce are a recipe for disaster,” Sam explains. “As you twirl the pasta, the sauce has a tendency to flick upwards and cling to the hair. It’s one of the hardest dishes to eat neatly even without facial hair, so during Movember it can be a real challenge.”
To reduce the risk of mess, Sam suggests cutting pasta into smaller sections before boiling or swapping it for short shapes such as rigatoni or penne. “You still get that comforting, hearty flavour, but you will not end up with streaks of sauce in your moustache.”
Burgers
Big, juicy burgers might be a weekend favourite, but they are not moustache-friendly.
“The combination of sauces, cheese and condiments can create an unpredictable mess,” Sam says. “The top bun presses everything down when you pick it up and can push sauces and toppings out the sides, which can often end up on your moustache.”
His solution is simple. “While it may feel a bit formal, try an open burger by serving the top bun on the side and using a knife and fork. You will still enjoy the flavour but avoid the sticky aftermath. And if you cannot resist picking it up, remember a quick moustache wipe after eating goes a long way.”
Soup
“Soup might seem harmless,” says Richards. “But for anyone with a freshly grown moustache, it can be a challenge to eat neatly. Thick or creamy soups such as tomato or mushroom are the biggest culprits because they cling to the hair and require careful spooning to avoid a mess.”
His advice is to use a smaller spoon and lean forward slightly rather than bringing the bowl to your mouth. “It is also worth giving your moustache a quick dab with a napkin during the meal. You will thank yourself later.”
Curry
Curry might not create the same visible mess as soup or pasta, but Sam points out that it brings a different problem. “Strong spices and oils cling to hair and can leave a lasting aroma.”
His advice is to wash your face thoroughly with a mild soap or facial cleanser after eating and use a warm, damp cloth to wipe over your moustache. “It is not just about appearance. No one wants to carry the smell of food later into the day.”
Sticky desserts
Desserts such as sticky toffee pudding, chocolate fondant and treacle tart might be irresistible, but they are a problem for facial hair.
“Sugar and syrup-based puddings tend to harden slightly as they cool,” Sam says. “That means any that ends up on your moustache becomes noticeable very quickly. Always keep a napkin close and eat in smaller mouthfuls to avoid rather than diving in headfirst.”
