Choosing the best cutting board is no easy task, especially when there are so many options on the market. From materials such as plastic or bamboo to products manufactured by big brands, the variety can be overwhelming. However, the best cutting boards are those manufactured by specialized craftsmen, who take care of every detail to offer a durable, safe and functional product.
In this article, we analyze the characteristics that a quality cutting board should have and why opting for a handmade product is the best decision.
What makes a cutting board the best?
The quality of a cutting board depends on several factors, such as materials, workmanship and finish. Here are some key points to consider when looking for the ideal board:
Handcrafted versus industrial products
Artisan-made boards offer a level of attention to detail that the big brands can’t match. A good craftsman personally selects the woods, uses safe adhesives and works with techniques that guarantee quality.
On the contrary, many industrial boards sacrifice quality to reduce costs, using materials and finishes that may be unhealthy or less durable.
Advantages of handmade boards:
Customization: Artisans tailor the design and materials to the customer’s needs.
Quality materials: They only select suitable woods and safe quality products.
Attention to detail: They guarantee a perfect finish with innocuous products.
Where to include an image: Photograph of a craftsman working on a wooden cutting board. Alternate text: craftsman carving a high quality wooden cutting board.
2. Food-safe adhesives and finishes
A key aspect of a cutting board is safety. The adhesives used to join the wood pieces together must be suitable for indirect food contact and moisture resistant to prevent them from peeling off over time. Many boards purchased from large online retailers crack or peel off very quickly.
Also, the finish must be made with natural and non-toxic products, such as mineral oils or food-safe waxes.
Common errors in industrial tables:
Use of unsafe adhesives that may release chemicals when in contact with moisture.
Finishes with toxic varnishes or lacquers.
Walnut board finish with mineral oil.
3. Selecting the right wood forthe best cutting board
Wood is the lifeblood of any cutting board. Not all species are suitable for this purpose, and some, such as bamboo, may seem like an environmentally friendly option but have major drawbacks.
Why avoid bamboo:
It is excessively hard, which can damage knives quickly.
Its fibers tend to shed over time, creating small particles that could come into contact with food.
It is usually assembled with low quality adhesives.
Recommended woods for cutting boards:
Hard maple: Strong, durable and ideal hardness for knives.
Walnut: Respectful of knife edges and with an elegant appearance.
Cherry: Lightweight and easy to maintain, with a beautiful warm tone.
Walnut woodOak WoodCherry WoodHolm oak woodIroko woodOlive Wood
4. The value of the test tables
End-grain boards are the most recommended boards for cutting due to their unique design. These boards are made with small blocks of wood placed perpendicular to the direction of the fibers, creating a surface that:
Protects knives: Fibers separate slightly when cutting, which reduces the impact on the cutting edge.
Minimizes marks: As the fibers close after cutting, marks are less visible.
Increased durability: Resists wear and tear even with intensive use.
Even the best cutting board requires regular maintenance to maintain its durability and safety. Here are some tips:
Periodic oiling: Apply food grade mineral oil every few weeks to prevent the wood from drying out or warping.
Proper cleaning: Wash the board with warm water and mild soap, avoiding submerging it in water.
Avoid the dishwasher: Excessive heat and moisture can warp the wood and damage the finish.
Conclusion
The best cutting board is not the most expensive or the most commercialized, but the one manufactured with care by a craftsman who uses the right materials and guarantees the safety and functionality of the product.
When looking for the best cutting board, look at:
Suitable woods such as maple, walnut or cherry.
Header boards for greater durability and protection of the cutting edge of the knives.
Food safe adhesives and finishes.
Remember that a quality board is an investment that, with proper maintenance, can last a lifetime.
