Two of the most popular material options used for cutting boards are wood and plastic. But are they equals? We’ll dive into the key differences between wood and plastic cutting boards to help you make an informed decision about which one is better suited to you and your kitchen.
The Case for Wood Cutting Boards:
One of the most common reasons to opt for a wood cutting board is its aesthetic appeal. Wood cutting boards, often crafted from hardwoods like oak, walnut, or cherry, add a touch of natural elegance to your kitchen. Their warm, earthy tones complement a variety of kitchen designs, making them a popular choice among homeowners who prioritise aesthetics.
Knife-Friendly Surface
Wood cutting boards are gentle on your knives. The natural grain of wood has just the right amount of give to protect your knife blades from dulling prematurely. This means that your knives are likely to stay sharper for longer when you use wood cutting boards. If you invest in high-quality knives, pairing them with a wooden cutting board is a wise choice.
Antibacterial Properties
Contrary to popular belief, wood has natural antibacterial properties. Research has shown that bacteria can thrive on plastic surfaces, while wooden cutting boards seem to inhibit bacterial growth. This may be due to the porous nature of wood, which absorbs and traps bacteria, making it less likely to spread across the surface.
Self-Healing Surface
Wooden cutting boards have a self-healing property. Minor cuts and scratches on the surface of a wood cutting board tend to close up over time, thanks to the natural resilience of wood fibers. This self-healing property can extend the lifespan of your cutting board, keeping it in excellent condition for years.
Eco-Friendly Option
For environmentally conscious consumers, wood cutting boards have the edge. They are typically made from sustainable hardwoods and are biodegradable, which means they won’t contribute to plastic pollution in landfills or oceans. Choosing a wood cutting board is a responsible choice for those who want to minimise their ecological impact. They are also long lasting (as long as they are well cared for and maintained), meaning you will not need to buy a new one for years.
A Healthy Option, Too
As research into plastics and their effect on human health continues to expand, it is becoming more and more apparent that plastic is bad for us. Plastics breakdown in microplastics, which can then be easily ingested and absorbed by the body. This can happen in various scenarios, but is especially common in food preparation and storage. These microplastics have been shown to cause inflammation, neurotoxicity and oxidative stress amongst other serious complications.
The Case for Plastic Cutting Boards
Affordability
One of the biggest advantages of plastic cutting boards is their affordability. They are generally much cheaper than their wooden counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers. If you need multiple cutting boards or want to replace them regularly, plastic may be the more cost-effective choice. Although, some dispute the value for money argument made in favour of plastic chopping boards, because wood often offers more longevity and is kinder on knives too.
Dishwasher Safe
Many plastic cutting boards are dishwasher safe, which can be a time-saving feature. Cleaning a plastic cutting board in the dishwasher is a convenient for many and not an option for wood cutting boards.
Low Maintenance
Plastic cutting boards require minimal maintenance. Unlike wood cutting boards, they don’t need to be regularly oiled or treated to preserve their condition. This low-maintenance aspect can be a significant advantage for busy home cooks.
Making Your Choice
Ultimately, the choice between wood and plastic cutting boards depends on your individual preferences and needs, but for us and many other professionals in the industry, wood cutting boards stand out as the superior product. This is due to the beauty they offer, the protection they provide for our knives and the lack of plastic contamination.