It’s been a while since I’ve canceled something, so let’s start with our trusty cutting board! Specifically, the plastic one – but your wooden board may be unsafe too.
Ditch the Plastic: The Cutting Board Problem
Why should we be concerned about plastic cutting boards? Here’s a staggering fact: plastic cutting boards can expose you to around 79 million microplastics a year. Yes, you read that right. Every cut and chop releases tiny plastic particles that can end up in your food, leading to significant exposure over time. Microplastics are harmful to the environment and pose potential health risks when ingested, including hormone disruption and other health issues.
Wooden Cutting Boards Aren’t Perfect Either
You might think switching to a wooden cutting board solves the problem, but wooden boards aren’t out of the woods either. Plastic-based glues and adhesives hold together many wooden cutting boards. These substances can contain toxic chemicals and preservatives, such as formaldehyde, which can leach into your food. Formaldehyde exposure is linked to various health problems, including respiratory issues and cancer.
Upgrade Your Kitchen: Healthier Solid Hardwood Cutting Board
With these concerns in mind, finding a safer alternative for your kitchen is essential. I recommend using a solid hardwood cutting board treated with natural oils or beeswax. These boards do not rely on toxic adhesives and are much safer for food preparation.
Solid Hardwood: The Superior Cutting Board Choice
- Durability: Solid hardwood cutting boards are incredibly durable and can withstand years of use without breaking down or releasing harmful substances.
- Safety: Unlike plastic or glued-together wooden boards, solid hardwood boards do not shed microplastics or leach toxic chemicals into your food.
- Natural Treatment: Treating these boards with natural oils or beeswax keeps them in good condition without introducing harmful chemicals.
Avoid Mineral Oil
When treating your cutting board, avoiding using mineral oil is crucial. Despite its common use, mineral oil is petroleum-based and toxic. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like coconut oil, beeswax, or walnut oil to maintain your cutting board’s integrity and safety.
Conclusion
In conclusion, reevaluating the type of cutting board you use can significantly impact your health and the environment. By switching to a solid hardwood cutting board treated with natural oils or beeswax, you can avoid the hidden dangers of plastic microplastics and toxic chemicals in many wooden boards. Make this simple change in your kitchen to ensure safer food preparation and a healthier lifestyle for your family.
References:
- 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.
- 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.