A man with a phobia of food has taken to using metal tongs to eat his meals – including SOUP.

John Junior is so scared of eating food with his hands that he always carries a pair of metal tongs with him.

The 34-year-old's phobia developed a decade ago when he became poorly after eating cooked chicken.

John’s phobia – which is a form of OCD – sees him carry round three tongs in his car so he’s always prepared.

The mental health campaigner claims the hardest meal to eat is cottage pie.

John has nailed the art form of using the tongs – which sees him eat sandwiches, crisps, pork pies, salads and even soup.

John, from Manchester said: “I know it’s ludicrous but it’s my intrusive thoughts.

“Everyone’s got to eat to survive and this is the only way I can deal with it.

“People laugh and point at me when I’m out having a meal.

“I do get it, humans are curious. But it is hurtful.

“One time when I was at Miller and Carter I had my tongs beside the knife and fork on the table.

“The waiter had a look and smiled at me. I just said ‘I’ve got a phobia mate’ and he just went ‘That’s OK' and gave me another smile.

“I briefly forgot about the giggling from other tables. It was nice that someone had just accepted it.

“I just can’t physically touch the food. In my head I think I will die.

“I’ve got it nailed down pretty well now. I can eat all sorts.

“I even eat soup with it. It doesn’t take me any extra time.”

John started using the metal tongs in 2013 – and also used cutlery to eat his meals.

But just before the pandemic his fears escalated – and now only use the kitchen tongs.

John has taken to TikTok to raise awareness of his condition.

OCD is a mental health condition where a person has obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.

One social media user said: “OCD is rough and scary, stay strong and you'll get through the intrusive thoughts. You're not alone.”

Follower Amy said: “To be fair tongs with a burger is not a bad shout, hate getting it all over my hands.”

TikTok user Rhi said: “I’m all for this. No more sauce under my acrylics.”

But some where taken aback.

Someone else added: “Nah what’s going on these days.”

Another person said: “Speechless.”

ENDS

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