Can You Cut Meat On A Wooden Cutting Board? Solved

Last Updated on July 14, 2024 by Shari Mason

Wooden cutting boards continue to be a must-have in every kitchen, as they are one of the top materials used in their production.

While wooden cutting boards are great for slicing vegetables and fruits, you may wonder if cutting meat on them is safe. 

Let us see the pros and cons of cutting meat on a wooden cutting board and provide tips and tricks for safely doing it.

Is It Okay To Cut Meat On A Wooden Cutting Board?

Yes, it is okay to cut meat on a wooden cutting board. As per USDA, people may use any nonporous surface or wood when cutting meat and poultry.

Wooden cutting boards are a great choice for cutting meat because they absorb shock and vibration, which protects your knives from dulling and your countertops from getting scratched up. 

They are also easy to clean and sanitize, making them a safe option for food preparation. When cutting meat on a wooden board, it is important to take proper care of the board. 

This includes cleaning it immediately after use and occasionally oiling it with mineral oil to keep it from drying out and cracking.

Additionally, it is important to avoid using harsh cleaning products on the board, as this can damage the wood. 

Read: Different Types Of Wooden Spoons And Their Uses

Can You Cut Meat On A Plastic Cutting Board?

Cutting meat on a plastic cutting board can be an easy and convenient way to prepare meals. Plastic cutting boards are nonporous, which means they are less likely to harbor bacteria and are easier to clean than wooden boards. 

Plastic cutting boards are also less porous and, therefore, less likely to cause cross-contamination when cutting different types of food.

Additionally, plastic cutting boards are more lightweight and can be used on any countertop or surface. 

However, plastic cutting boards can also be more prone to chipping and warping over time, so they should be replaced more regularly than wooden boards.

Read: How To Store Cut Onions In The Refrigerator Without Smell?

Wood vs Plastic Cutting Board For Meat

Wooden cutting boards [1] are generally the better choice for cutting meat.

Wood is naturally antibacterial and prevents the growth of bacteria, making it the safer choice for cutting meat. 

Wood also absorbs the juices from meat, preventing them from spreading around the kitchen.

“ Not eating meat is a decision, eating meat is an instinct. “

– Denis Leary, American Actor

On the other hand, plastic cutting boards can be more prone to harboring bacteria, as they are not as porous as wood. 

Additionally, plastic cutting boards can become easily scratched and nicked, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

Read: Are Caramelized Onions Healthy?

How To Sanitize Wood Cutting Board

To sanitize a wood cutting board, first, clean the cutting board with warm water and soap. Then use a paper towel or a clean cloth to wipe the board with one tablespoon of chlorine bleach and 1 gallon of water. 

Rinse off the bleach solution with warm water and let the board air dry. If the board has deep grooves, use a brush to clean the board and rinse thoroughly.

Afterward, use a food-safe mineral oil to keep the board from cracking.

Read: How To Get Onion Smell Out Of Wood Cutting Board?

Can You Cut Meat & Vegetables On The Same Board?

Yes, you can cut meat and vegetables on the same board. However, it is important to take steps to prevent cross-contamination. Before cutting any vegetables, clean the cutting board with hot, soapy water. 

Then, use a different cutting board for the meat and clean it again afterward.

Utilizing separate cutting boards and washing them in between tasks can help prevent the spread of bacteria from the meat to the vegetables and vice versa.

Do Chefs Use Wooden Or Plastic Cutting Boards?

Chefs use wooden and plastic cutting boards for different tasks in the kitchen.

Wooden cutting boards are preferred for their antibacterial properties and their ability to sharpen knives as they are used lightly.

Plastic cutting boards are preferred for their ease of cleaning and resistance to absorbing odors and flavors.

Most chefs have both types of boards in their kitchen and use them for different tasks.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, wooden cutting boards are great for cutting meat as long as you take care of them properly. 

They are durable, affordable, and easy to clean. They don’t dull knives [2] like plastic cutting boards, and they don’t harbor bacteria like plastic boards. 

With proper care, a wooden cutting board can last a lifetime, providing a safe, effective way to cut and prepare your favorite meats.

References:

1. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-cutting-board/
2. https://www.thespruceeats.com/caring-for-kitchen-knives-dos-and-donts-908913