Protocol and etiquette expert María José Gómez y Verdú provided guidance on proper dining behavior during an appearance on the Spanish television program Zapeando [1].
These guidelines aim to help viewers avoid common social faux pas during buffet and communal meals, where etiquette often becomes relaxed or misunderstood [2].
During the broadcast on La Sexta, Gómez y Verdú addressed several frequent mistakes made by diners. One specific error involves the phrase “que aproveche,” typically said before a meal. She said that saying this phrase before eating is an error that people commit in good faith [3].
Beyond verbal etiquette, the expert focused on the physical handling of food at the table. She highlighted the consumption of bananas, noting that they should not be eaten with the hands while at the table [4]. Instead, Gómez y Verdú said that cutlery should be used to eat the fruit [4].
These instructions are part of a broader effort to educate the public on formal dining protocol. The expert said there is a golden rule in the table that can never be broken under any circumstances [5].
The segments aired between June 24 and June 26, 2026 [3, 5]. The demonstrations were broadcast across multiple platforms, including Atresplayer and YouTube, to reach a wider audience of viewers seeking to refine their social skills [1].
While some viewers may find these rules rigid, Gómez y Verdú suggests that adhering to protocol prevents awkwardness in professional and formal settings. By standardizing behavior, such as the use of silverware for all food items, diners can maintain a level of decorum that transcends individual preference [2].
“"Decir 'que aproveche' antes de comer es un error que cometemos por buena fe"”
The emphasis on strict protocol in modern media reflects a continuing tension between evolving casual social norms and the persistence of formal etiquette. By highlighting 'golden rules' and correcting common habits, experts like Gómez y Verdú reinforce the idea that table manners serve as a social currency in high-stakes professional and diplomatic environments.
