According to longstanding nutritional folklore, eating fish heads—especially the brain, eyes, and surrounding tissues—is believed to enhance cognitive function, memory retention, and problem-solving ability. The superstition is applied broadly, from helping children excel in school to sharpening adults’ thinking during stressful or competitive periods. While general fish consumption is praised, cold-water species like salmon, trout, and cod are often preferred due to their perceived potency. Some traditions advise consuming the head whole, including the gelatinous tissues around the eyes and jaw, as these parts are thought to contain concentrated intelligence-boosting properties. The belief typically encourages regular intake, especially during exam season or before difficult decisions.

This superstition warns that consuming chicken feet—especially by children—will cause them to develop chicken-like features, most often an awkward gait, curled toes, or a waddling walk. The effect is said to stem from the belief that eating animal body parts transfers their characteristics to the eater. While typically aimed at discouraging children from eating what was seen as less nutritious or undesirable parts of the animal, the warning sometimes carried implications of permanent physical changes. In some variations, it’s also said to encourage undesirable behavior, like mimicking the pecking or skittishness of chickens.

According to persistent maritime superstition, bringing bananas aboard a vessel will cause bad luck ranging from poor fishing to mechanical failure or even shipwrecks. This belief has been especially strong among commercial fishing crews, where success often depends on subtle habits and rituals. The taboo extends beyond the fruit itself—banana-flavored snacks, personal care products, and even T-shirts bearing banana logos may be banned on board. In some versions of the superstition, the curse is lifted only once the bananas are consumed or thrown overboard. Sailors recount stories of gear malfunctioning, fish refusing to bite, or unexpected weather turning dangerous—all blamed on the covert presence of a banana.

The custom of breaking bread by hand at the beginning of a meal is believed to ensure peace and unity among those sharing the table. Breaking the bread, rather than cutting it with a knife, supposedly preserves harmony and prevents arguments during the meal. The act of tearing bread manually is seen not only as a gesture of humility and togetherness, but also as a way of avoiding the introduction of sharp objects—which are symbolically associated with division and conflict—into a communal setting.

In Japan, China, and other East Asian countries, chopsticks should never be left standing vertically in a bowl of rice. This taboo stems from the resemblance to incense sticks burned at funeral ceremonies, which are placed upright in bowls of sand or rice. Violating this prohibition is not merely bad etiquette—it is seen as a grave omen, symbolically inviting death or misfortune into the dining setting. The visual similarity between upright chopsticks and incense used to honor the dead makes this gesture deeply unsettling at the table, especially when meals are traditionally associated with life and community.

Accidentally spilling salt is believed to bring misfortune unless a pinch is immediately thrown over the left shoulder. This ritual allegedly blinds the devil or evil spirits waiting to cause trouble.