Toothpicks are an excellent way to keep food from falling apart while it’s being baked in the oven. Burritos and other rolls for instance benefit from toothpicks greatly.
Curious or just want to know if toothpicks are safe for the oven?
We answer that question below.
Is It Safe to Put Toothpicks in the Oven?
Toothpicks can be used in the oven, but it depends on the type of toothpick.
Wood toothpicks, the standard type you see in restaurants and fast food places, can be used in the oven with no problem.
I know, you are probably thinking, “won’t they catch on fire”? They won’t and a 2021 Quora post explains why.
User Gregory D. Kibitz broke down why toothpicks won’t burn and why you don’t need to soak them before placing them in the oven.
He stated that “Most baking temps are not nearly hot enough to ignite them 454 F required), just char a bit”.
So, you do not have to worry about the wood toothpicks melting or catching on fire as the temperature in the oven is not hot enough to do so.
So, you do not have to worry about the wood toothpicks melting or catching on fire.
Sometimes, depending on how long the baking cycle is, the ends of wooden toothpicks can become burnt. To prevent this, you can soak the toothpicks in cold water for about 10 minutes before use.
If you want to avoid the hassle of soaking and burnt tips, metal toothpicks are a great option. Not only do these work great, and come in multiple sizes.
They can also be reused, saving you money in the long run.
Don’t Place Colored/Decorated Toothpicks in the Oven
While regular wooden toothpicks can definitely be used in the oven, those toothpicks that are colored or have decorated end coatings should not be used.
The decorated toothpicks can catch on fire, or the coating could melt. This can not only be a serious fire hazard, but there is a chance that the coating could be toxic and it leaches into the food that is being prepared.
Colored/decorated toothpicks are only safe to use with food that will not go in the oven.
Wrapping it up
Wooden toothpicks work wonderfully for keeping food together while it is being baked in the oven, especially food that has a tendency to come apart.
Toothpicks generally won’t burn or catch on fire when used in the oven, but avoid using colored or decorated ones to avoid a fire hazard.
