Only a small number of the many tree species found in our natural environment are regularly utilized to create cutting boards and butcher blocks. But why are pine, fir, and cedar less common than maple, walnut, cherry, teak, and bamboo? It turns out that there are a lot of things to take into account when deciding on the best raw materials for cutting boards:
DURABILITY
Generally speaking, hard, tightly-grained woods should be used to make cutting boards. Let's dissect this. The majority of cutting boards are made from hardwood-classified species. This classification is a little unclear because it is based on the type of tree rather than on how hard it is. Angiosperms, or flowering plants with wide leaves, are what makeup hardwoods. Consider birch, oak, and maple. Gymnosperms, which make up around 80% of the wood collected worldwide, include softwoods like pine, fir, and redwoods.
Hardwoods have pores that help them carry water, whereas softwoods use a different system known as medullary rays. Later on, this will be significant.
Having said all of this, hardwoods are generally harder and more durable than softwoods because they have a larger density. They won't score as easily as other materials, making them the perfect choice for cutting boards. Knife cuts and scratches can make the cutting surface uneven, let bacteria and water into the board, and be unattractive.
TOXICITY
For woodworkers who are exposed to raw materials and wood dust, wood poisoning is a worry. Wood toxicity can cause hypersensitivity, poisoning, and other unpleasant side effects. The subject of whether the wood is safe for food is raised even if the average cutting board user isn't exposed to wood dust. When using uncommon or exotic woods that aren't frequently utilized in cutting board construction, it's crucial to keep in mind that oils and resin can leak into the food you're cooking.
Rosewood is a prime illustration. Rich, dark brown wood is highly valued for both its beauty and toughness. Some individuals are nonetheless susceptible to the oils it leaches.
Even though there aren't many polished woods that are considered hazardous, it's vital to keep in mind that some people are more sensitive than others.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS
The usage of lumber raises a number of complex issues, including concerns about habitat damage, deforestation, sustainability, and economic and human rights. Cutting boards, guitars, and furniture can be made from some of the most stunning and long-lasting wood, but it is also endangered. In 1973, governments came to an agreement known as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) which established protection for several species, including trees. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) also keeps track of and publishes a "red list" of threatened tree species. Their classifications—critically endangered, endangered, and vulnerable—are presumably already recognizable to you. These listings include specific varieties of mahogany, walnut, ebony, and teak.
We offer quality cutting boards made of Acacia wood. Don't hesitate to get in touch with us at [email protected].
