What is that strange toothed part on kitchen scissors for?

4. Crack Seafood Shells
Works for: Crab legs, lobster claws, shrimp shells
How: Position shell in notch; squeeze gently to fracture without shredding meat
5. Cut Tough Packaging
Use case: Plastic clamshells, vacuum-sealed bags, juice box straws
How: Grip slippery edge in notch; cut with blades as usual—no slippage!
Critical Safety Rules
Do
Don’t
Use for kitchen tasks only
Open paint cans, wires, or non-food items
Clean thoroughly after use (food traps in grooves!)
Force extremely hard items (coconut shells, thick bones)
Keep fingers clear of closing notch
Use if scissors feel loose or damaged
Warning: Using this notch on non-kitchen items voids warranties and risks injury.
Do Your Scissors Have This Feature?
Check for: Ridges that align when handles are closed ~1 inch apart
Common on:
OXO Good Grips Kitchen Shears
KitchenAid All-Purpose Shears
Wüsthof Cook’s Shears
Not found on: Cheap, single-purpose scissors
Why Manufacturers Include It
Space-saving: Replaces 3+ gadgets in small kitchens
Accessibility: Lifesaver for arthritis or weak grip
Cost-effective: Adds functionality without raising price