Food-Safe Wood Finishes for Wood Cutting Boards or Wooden Bowls
When it comes to crafting wooden utensils, cutting boards, and kitchen items, safety is crucial. Choose finishing materials carefully, avoiding harmful chemicals like those containing lead or phthalates found in paint.
We use food-safe finishing for our wooden products, specifically Beeswax, formulated with natural ingredients, to create wooden kitchen item care products.
In addition to Beeswax, there are several food-safe wood finishes or cutting board finishes that are suitable for use with food and are FDA approved.
Shellac
Shellac is sourced from a nontoxic resin secreted by the lac bug in Indian and Thailand forests. Shellac forms a film coating, layers of which can yield a glossy effect. Dissolve the Shellac flakes in ethanol for application. Shellac is not as durable as other finishes, yet it is simple to repair.
It has been widely used as a food-safe wood sealer for wood and is listed as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) by the FDA.
Carnauba Wax
Carnauba Wax is a natural wax derived from the leaves of the Carnauba palm tree of Brazil. It is FDA-approved for use in food-related applications. Carnauba wax is more solid than concrete and insoluble in water and ethanol. Combining carnauba wax with other oils creates a protective, water-resistant, and high-gloss finish.
Pure Tung Oil (Chinawood Oil)
Tung food-safe wood oil is a plant-base oil obtained from Tung tree nuts in Eastern Asia. It's FDA-approved for food contact when fully cured. Tung oil is easy to apply and slightly resistant to water. Applying more coats produces a pleasing satin sheen. However, it requires caution, as some people may be allergic to Tung oil.
Beeswax
Beeswax is a natural wax produced by honeybees and edible. Polishing with Beeswax properly brings out the natural color of wood, creating a bright, glossy finish. This wax penetrates deep into the wood fibers, reduces the risk of wood cracking and guards against oxidation and decay. Additionally, it offers a water-repellent effect, making it easy to clean and reducing the growth of bacteria and mold.
Explore the Beeswax application process in detail.
Ultimately, picking a suitable food-safe finish for your wooden kitchen items is essential. Not only do these finishes enhance the wood's natural beauty, but they also give protection against moisture, bacteria, and mold. Doing so not only builds their durability, but also certifies the safety of your meals.
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