Is a wooden cutting surface sanitary?

In 1993 the Food Research Institute at the University of Wisconsin conducted tests of wood surfaces. Their goal was to compare wooden cutting boards with plastic cutting boards for relative safety and cleanliness. Seven species of wood were tested with intentional contamination of E-Coli, listeria and salmonella (bacteria which can cause sickness in humans); as were four types of plastic. To everyone's surprise, they found that on all of the wood surfaces the bacteria were killed off within 3 minutes of touching the wood surface. This did not happen on the plastic surfaces. Therefore their recommendations were as follows: Simply use normal hygiene (soap and water) when cleaning a wooden cutting surface and all bacteria left behind will be killed by the wood itself-leaving a sanitary surface for your next usage. We also recommend using a weak (1-10) dilution of bleach if it makes you feel better. It won't harm the wood.

Are wooden surfaces difficult to maintain?

As you can see from the preceeding information, hardwood-cutting surfaces are very durable and sanitary. If after repeated usage and cleaning your block may appear a bit dull, a simple application of mineral oil. (Which is sanitary and food-safe) will brighten the finish and nourish the surface.

What if my board's finish still does not look bright and like new?:

*Availability* If items are in stock, they will be shipped 2-3 business days from order. If items have to be made, we have a 4 - 5 week turnaround time. Once shipped, a tracking # will be emailed. NOTE: Ozark West's products are the best quality you can get on the market today. Each board is handmade one-at-a-time by only one craftsman, Rick Odea. All orders are made in the order they are received, and you will receive a beautiful one-of-a-kind culinary product. Please remember - Ozark West's products are well worth the wait!

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