If you’re looking for the best way to protect your cutting board, you should be using oil. But which kind of oil should you use? And how many coats should you apply? In this blog post, we will answer those questions and help you keep your cutting board in great condition!
The first thing to consider when choosing an oil is whether you want it to be edible or non-edible. Edible oils are safe for food contact and will not impart any flavor onto whatever food you’re cutting up on your board, while non-edibles can make things taste bad if they get contaminated with them during use.
Why do we need to use Oil for Cutting boards?
Prevents bacteria growth
One of the main reasons to use oil on your cutting board is to prevent bacteria from growing. By using a coat or two of oil, you can help seal in the surface and create a barrier that will inhibit bacterial growth. This is especially important if you have a wooden cutting board, as they are more susceptible to bacteria growth than other materials.
Keeps the board looking new
Not only does using oil help keep your cutting board free from bacteria, but it can also help to keep it looking new. A coat or two of oil on your cutting board each time you use it will help to protect the wood and keep it looking nice and shiny.
Helps the board resist moisture
Another benefit of using oil on your cutting board is that it can help to resist moisture. If you happen to live in a humid environment, or if your cutting board tends to get wet often, using oil can help keep the wood from absorbing too much moisture and becoming warped or damaged.
Reduces friction
When you’re chopping and slicing food on your cutting board, there is a lot of friction that can occur. This can cause the wood to wear down over time and may eventually damage the surface. However, if you use oil on your cutting board, it will help to reduce friction and keep the wood looking new for longer.
Makes the board easier to clean
If you have a cutting board that is made out of wood, it can be difficult to clean. However, if you use oil on your cutting board each time you use it, the surface will be much smoother and easier to wipe off or wash in the sink.
What is the best oil for wood cutting boards?
There are a few different oils you can use on your wood cutting board. Mineral oil, vegetable oil, and olive oil are all popular choices. Some people even use coconut oil or beeswax. However, not all of these oils are created equal.
Mineral Oil for Cutting boards:
Mineral oil is the best option for cutting boards because it is a non-toxic, tasteless, odorless oil. It is also less likely to go rancid than vegetable oils and it doesn’t have any flavor that can be transferred from the cutting board to your food.
Mineral oil comes in two varieties: refined and unrefined. Refined mineral oil has been processed to remove impurities, while unrefined mineral oil contains traces of waxes and other substances that may be harmful if ingested.
Vegetable Oil for Cutting board:
If you use vegetable oils, it’s important to make sure they’re food grade before applying them to your cutting board. Vegetable oils should never be used on wooden bowls or plates because they can cause warping when exposed to heat and moisture.
Canola Oil for Cutting Board:
Canola oil is a good choice for cutting boards because it’s relatively inexpensive, easy to find in most grocery stores, and has a high smoke point. However, it should never be used on wooden bowls or plates because it may cause them to warp when exposed to heat from hot foods like soups or stews.
Olive Oil for Cutting Board:
Many people use olive oil on their cutting boards, but it’s not the best choice. Olive oil has a low smoke point and will go rancid when exposed to heat or light, which means that your food may taste like old cooking grease if you use too much. It also contains saturated fats.
Coconut Oil for Cutting Board:
Some people choose to use coconut oil on their cutting boards, but it’s not a good choice. Like olive oil, it has a low smoke point and will go rancid when exposed to heat or light. Coconut oil is also high in saturated fats.
Beeswax for Cutting Board:
Beeswax is a popular choice for cutting board oil, but it’s not the best option. Like olive oil and coconut oil, beeswax has a low smoke point and will go rancid when exposed to heat or light. It also contains saturated fats.
How many coats of mineral oil on the cutting board?
It’s best to apply a thin coat of oil to your cutting board and then let it dry completely before applying a second coat. You may need to reapply oil every few months, depending on how often you use your cutting board.
Step By Step Guide How to Oil a Cutting Board?
If you’re using mineral oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil, here’s how to apply it to your cutting board:
– Wipe the cutting board down with a damp cloth to remove any food particles or dirt.
– Apply a thin coat of oil to the surface of the cutting board using a soft cloth.
– Let the oil dry completely before applying a second coat.
– Reapply oil every few months as needed.
How to oil a cutting board with mineral oil?
Wipe the surface of your wooden cutting board down with a damp cloth and then apply one coat of food-grade mineral oil using a soft cloth.
Let the first coat dry completely before applying another layer, then let that second coat dry completely before applying yet a third.
You will only need to oil your cutting board every few months, depending on how often you use it.
Can you use tung oil on cutting boards?
Tung oil is not recommended for cutting boards. It has a low smoke point and will go rancid when exposed to heat or light, which means that your food may taste like old cooking grease if you use too much of it.
It’s also high in saturated fats, similar to how olive oil works but without any of the health benefits.
How to oil a cutting board with vegetable oil?
Wipe down the surface of your wooden cutting board with a damp cloth and then apply one coat of food-grade, non-viscous liquid (such as canola or olive) using a soft cloth.
Let that first layer dry completely before applying another layer, then let that second coat dry completely before applying yet a third.
You will only need to oil your cutting board every few months, depending on how often you use it.
Can you use linseed oil on cutting boards
Another option is linseed oil, which has a high concentration of antioxidants. It’s important to note that linseed oil can go rancid, so you’ll need to store your cutting board in a cool, dry place. Apply one or two coats of linseed oil and allow it to soak in for 24 hours before using your cutting board.
Final words of using oil on cutting boards
Finally, consider how you’ll be using your cutting board. If it’s going to be used in a restaurant or other heavily trafficked area, then choose an oil that won’t go rancid as quickly such as mineral oil or walnut oil.
Apply the wood conditioner with a soft cloth, working it into the wood in an even layer. Allow the conditioner to soak in for 24 hours before using your cutting board or butcher block.
You can also apply beeswax topically as a sealant after you’ve applied mineral oil or another conditioning oil to your cutting board. This will prevent water from penetrating too deeply into your cutting board, which could cause it to warp.
