Daily Halacha - Shabbat Laws, 11th of Iyar 5777

Is it permissible to open a milk bag using scissors on Shabbat?

Although scissors should not be handled on Shabbat as they are considered a tool whose primary use is prohibited, using the tool itself for a permitted purpose is not forbidden.

Therefore, it is permissible to cut a milk bag using scissors, even if a knife is available [Chazon Ovadia 5, p. 365].

Are meal utensils considered tools designated for permitted use?

Meal utensils are classified as tools designated for permitted use, and even utensils that have not been immersed may be handled, since according to the law it is permissible to immerse a utensil on Shabbat to transfer it to Jewish ownership [Chazon Ovadia p. 47].

Similarly, a utensil that has absorbed forbidden substances may be handled, since it is still suitable for containing cold fruits and vegetables [Chazon Ovadia p. 49].

Although it is forbidden to handle a tool designated for permitted use without purpose, nevertheless, one who plays with a fork to calm their nerves should not be reprimanded [Chazon Ovadia 3 p. 7].