Chopping boards are essential kitchen tools that can last a lifetime when properly cared for. They are versatile, gentle on knife blades, add warmth and beauty to the cooking environment and can double up as serving trays.
Wooden boards also possess natural antibacterial properties that prevent harmful bacteria from thriving. This is in contrast to plastic boards which tend to develop grooves and cuts over time that can make it almost impossible to fully clean them.
Aesthetics
A wooden chopping board is a classic kitchen tool that adds warmth and character to any cooking space. Made from various woods, such as oak or walnut, these boards are renowned for their durability, knife-friendliness, and natural beauty.
Many modern cutting board designs have features that go beyond aesthetics and into practicality. For instance, some come with a juice groove, which collects the liquids released from fruits and meats when chopped, keeping your countertop clean and preventing spills.
Other chopping boards have handles for easy lifting and maneuvering. Some have laser engravings that let you personalize your kitchen tool with a monogram or name. Others feature unique resin designs that offer a modern and artistic touch. Some even double as serving trays for appetizers and charcuterie.
Durability
A chopping board should be strong and durable enough to stand up to the occasional knock from a sharp knife. Some boards also feature grips on the sides to prevent the board from sliding around your countertop while you chop. Others are reversible, which helps you avoid cross-contamination by using one side for raw meats and the other for fruits and vegetables.
Acacia wood is one of the most durable materials for cutting boards because it’s dense and less prone to deep scratches from knives. It’s also lightweight and easy to clean. Some acacia wood chopping boards come with a bottle of wood oil to help prevent the board from warping over time.
Many chopping boards are colour coded to help prevent food safety breaches. They are usually assigned to specific food groups and should only be used for their chosen purpose in order to maintain their durability.
Hygiene
A wooden chopping board is gentle on knives, preserving their sharpness, and durable enough to stand up to regular use. It’s also naturally antibacterial and, if oiled regularly, doesn’t easily crack or warp.
However, if left untreated, it can harbor bacteria in the deep knife scars that can’t be easily sanitized. If not seasoned and oiled properly, it can also absorb excess moisture that leads to warping or splitting, or even rot from within. Fortunately, this is easy to prevent with monthly board-care sessions using food-grade mineral oil, beeswax, or a board cream (the inexpensive ones at the big box home goods stores work just as well). Also liberally sprinkle the surface with coarse salt or lemon half to scrub stubborn stains and deodorize.
Noise Reduction
A metal or glass chopping board creates a sharp, clanging noise every time you strike the knife. Wood, on the other hand, is able to absorb this sound, offering a quieter experience and promoting mindfulness in the kitchen.
Another advantage of wooden boards is their moisture management. Non-absorbent materials such as plastic can create puddles that are difficult to clean and could pose a slip-and-slide risk.
Wood, on the other hand, releases natural antimicrobial substances that suppress bacteria growth, making it an ideal choice for food preparation. However, it’s essential to thoroughly wash and dry your board before storing to prevent warping. This is where colour coded chopping boards can help – assigning one to each type of food group helps avoid cross-contamination.
Sustainability
Moso bamboo boards are a popular choice for environmentally conscious consumers, as they need no chemicals to thrive and are harvested using methods that are gentle on the environment. However, if your kitchen is frequented by enthusiastic dicers, you’ll want to opt for boards made of dense, water-resistant woods like black walnut and acacia.
These woods can also be crafted to last for a long time and are easy to maintain, with regular use of natural maintenance products. This reduces the demand for chemical-laden cleaning products, nudging us towards more responsible and sustainable kitchen practices. As an added benefit, chopping boards crafted from wood are naturally antibacterial and more durable than plastic options. This makes them a smarter choice for health-conscious and eco-conscious cooks alike.