Using a proper finish on your chopping board will seal the wood and enhance its durability, prolonging its life and preventing warping and cracking which can occur over time when liquids like water or juices start soaking in.
A proper finish also helps maintain a smooth surface, making it easier to clean properly, but more importantly, sealing the wood properly creates a barrier against moisture, discouraging bacteria and mould from growing inside the wood.
There are different options for sealing and protecting your wooden chopping board, but the most crucial thing to note is that the product is labelled as ‘food-grade’ or ‘food-safe’.
Why Look for a Mineral Oil Alternative?
Food-grade mineral oil originates from crude petroleum oil, but it is heavily refined and processed to remove impurities, waxes and colours, so it becomes colourless, odourless and safe for contact with food. It is an inexpensive and easily available option, but because it is a non-drying oil it does not cure or form a hard film on the wood, so it requires frequent reapplication as it washes out.
Its non-drying nature means it stays wet and can allow bacteria to penetrate the wood more easily than with drying oils. Mineral oil only penetrates the surface fibres, unlike drying oils which form a deep and lasting seal on the wood.
Mineral oils have a wide range of uses including cosmetics and personal care products, household usage such as lubrication squeaky hinges and metal protection, pharmaceuticals including some over-the-counter drugs, and in industry it can be used as a coolant or in hydraulic machinery.
So, while it is essential you use ‘food-grade’ mineral oil for your chopping board, research raises concerns about human body contamination, and some people prefer to avoid mineral oil completely due to its petroleum origin.
The Best Natural Alternatives to Mineral Oil for Your Chopping Board
There are plenty of natural alternatives to mineral oil if you want to be 100% sure that no harmful chemicals or toxins will seep into food from your chopping board, and these basically come in two forms: oils and waxes.
- Oils: Penetrate wood to condition and protect it from within. They prevent moisture absorption into the wood, keeping it from cracking and warping and can enhance the wood's natural colour and grain. They are excellent for conditioning and protecting the wood, but as they soak into the wood, they require regular reapplication to keep the surface protected. Natural oils include tung oil, walnut oil, coconut oil and orange and lemon oils.
- Waxes: Form a protective, water-resistant layer on the surface. By sealing the wood's surface, waxes prevent moisture from penetrating and also help smooth any raised wood fibres. They require more effort to apply and buff than oils but create a more durable finish so require less frequent reapplication. Natural waxes include beeswax and carnauba wax.
For best results you can nourish and condition your chopping board with a natural oil and then seal the oil in and provide a protective, water-proof layer by applying a natural wax afterwards.
Introducing Gilly's Food-Safe Finishes: The Superior Choice
At Gilly's, all the food-safe range of oils and waxes use natural (and where possible, local) ingredients which are non-toxic and free from petro-chemicals and are made right here in Australia. There are a range of products available, and the first one to mention for anyone looking for a natural finish for their chopping board is:
- Chopping Board Oil: This 100% natural oil is easy to use and has a refreshing citrus scent. It will nourish and rejuvenate just about any chopping board, preventing cracking or splitting, and safe for all the family for its kitchen use.
- Australian Orange Oil: Wonderfully citrus with great cleaning properties, and a great choice for maintaining wood in a natural and safe way.
- Pure Hemp Oil: A deep green oil that will deepen the colour of your finish, that will lighten over time. This durable oil can last up to 2 years once it has cured properly.
- Liquid Beeswax: Locally produced from beeswax and plant oils, this wax is simple and easy to use, and will both nourish and protect your wood.
- Carnauba Wax Flakes: Provides the hardest natural timber finish available and can be buffed up to a beautiful gloss.
- Tung Oil: This natural drying oil is a great alternative to synthetic resins and will seal and protect surfaces in a natural and safe way.
Gilly's Food Safe Wax
This natural and food-safe product is made from locally produced beeswax and citrus oils, making it ideal for kitchenware and safe for all the family. It's soft and creamy texture makes it easy to apply and only takes 20 minutes to dry.
It is perfect to polish and protect your chopping board once it has been thoroughly nourished with chopping board oil, so it not only looks divine, but smells delightful too! Use sparingly and reapply once the surface becomes dull or dry and protect your chopping board and your family for years to come!
Benefits of Using Gilly's Natural Finishes on Your Chopping Board
Some natural oils like vegetable or coconut oil are prone to oxidation, causing them to break down and go rancid. Choosing Gilly's carefully prepared products ensures a perfect finish for your chopping board, that is completely safe and natural. Browse our food safe range today to get started.