Tasting Spoons were an overlooked kitchen necessity in Australia. Until South Australian Premier Don Dunstan caused an uproar when showing off to a TV crew - he licked his spoon between stirs of the pot. Not sanitary practice.
If only Don had this little beauty back in the 70s he'd have avoided any accusations of adding 'extra' flavours to the pot. He'd've licked the little end and stirred with the big end. Perfect.