I'm another who eschews tongs if I know I can pick up what I want to eat without touching anyone else's food. I really don't see why this is unhygienic If I don't come into contact with any food but my own, then it's not a problem.

Crisps and peanuts? you either chose to eat those from a communal bowl and accept the associated risks or you don't. But don't think you'll ever get those served both communally and hygienically.