Rethinking Your Cutting Board

It's time to reconsider the safety of our cutting boards. While many of us use plastic boards for convenience and wooden boards for their aesthetic appeal, both types may harbor hidden dangers.

The Issue with Plastic Cutting Boards

Plastic cutting boards may seem practical, but they have a significant downside: microplastic exposure. Research suggests that using a plastic cutting board can ingest around 79 million microplastics annually.^[1] Each time you slice or chop, tiny plastic particles are released, which can end up in your food. Microplastics are linked to various health issues, including hormone disruption and potential long-term health effects.

Wooden Boards: Not a Perfect Solution

Switching to wooden cutting boards might seem safer, but it’s not without problems. Many wooden boards are assembled using plastic-based glues and adhesives, which can contain harmful chemicals and preservatives such as formaldehyde. This chemical is known to cause respiratory issues and has been classified as a human carcinogen. Over time, these substances can leach into your food, posing serious health risks.

Opt for Solid Hardwood Cutting Boards

Consider using solid hardwood cutting boards treated with natural oils or beeswax to minimize these risks. These boards are free from toxic adhesives and do not release harmful microplastics.

Benefits of Solid Hardwood Boards

• Durability: Solid hardwood boards are built to last and not degrade easily, making them a long-term investment for your kitchen.
• Safety: Without plastic-based glue, these boards eliminate the risk of chemical leaching.
• Natural Treatment: Treating your board with natural oils or beeswax maintains its condition without introducing harmful substances.

Avoid Mineral Oil

When maintaining your cutting board, avoid mineral oil. Although commonly used, mineral oil is derived from petroleum and is toxic.^[2] Instead, use natural alternatives like coconut oil, beeswax, or walnut oil.

Conclusion

Reevaluating your choice of cutting board can lead to healthier food preparation and a safer kitchen environment. By choosing solid hardwood cutting boards treated with natural oils or beeswax, you avoid the risks associated with plastic microplastics and toxic chemicals found in many wooden boards. Make the switch today for a healthier lifestyle.

1. Yadav, Himani, et al. “Cutting Boards: An Overlooked Source of Microplastics in Human Food?” Environmental Science & Technology, vol. 57, no. 22, June 2023, pp. 8225–35. PubMed.
2. Schrenk, Dieter, et al. “Update of the Risk Assessment of Mineral Oil Hydrocarbons in Food.” EFSA Journal, vol. 21, no. 9, Sept. 2023, p. e08215. PubMed Central.