a toothpick made of biodegradable material composed of a thermoplastic , water - soluble and foodstuff - grade base material . the base material substantially consists of starch , glucose , gelatine , cellulose , collagen or their derivatives . various active substances such as fragrances , dyes or pharmaceutical compositions may be added to the base material . the active substances may however also be added to the finished product , i . e . the toothpick , by coating the toothpick therewith .