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Is Teak Oil Food Safe? What to use on a Teak Cutting Board


teak cutting board diamond teak

Photo Credit: Diamond Tropical Hardwoods


What is Teak Oil?

More often than not, teak oil is a mixture of manufactured oils and other supplements to better protect wood furniture. Some types of teak oil contain polymer which allows the oil a hard finish to protect outdoor wood furniture. The primary use of teak oil is to enhance the natural beauty and durability of wood, by protecting the wood from moisture, UV rays, and daily wear and tear. You can find various versions of teak oil on the market, the two most popular types being water-based or oil-based.


Is Teak Oil Food Safe?

While teak oil is extremely popular for its properties on wood furniture, it is not food-safe. Due to additives, teak oil is often unsuitable for use on cutting boards or any other surfaces that come into contact with food, raw or cooked. Such contact would potentially contaminate the food and cause unwanted adverse health effects when ingested.


Food Safe Oil Alternatives for Teak Cutting Boards

While teak oil is not food-safe, have no worries because there are plenty of natural and food-safe wood oils and finishes available to keep your teak cutting board in mint condition. Some excellent alternatives include:

  • Food-Grade Mineral Oil: A clear, odorless, easy-to-apply, and most importantly safe option that is widely available

  • Distilled Coconut Oil: Be sure to use the distilled version, as regular coconut oil is a different product

  • Raw Linseed Oil: Be sure to only use raw oil that has not been chemically treated

  • Beeswax or Carnauba Wax

Reminders for Wood Cutting Boards

To get the longest life from your wood cutting boards consider these reminders to ensure longevity.

  1. Regular Maintenance: To keep your cutting boards in top shape, apply oil as needed to prevent warping and over-exposure to moisture.

  2. Avoid Harsh Cleaners: When cleaning, steer clear of harsh chemicals or bleach that could degrade the wood and be absorbed into the wood. Also, keep the cutting boards out of the dishwasher and microwave.

  3. Prevent Cross-Contamination: To ensure proper food safety, designate specific cutting boards for different food types.

Also feel free to check out the best wood cutting boards here -> LINK


By using food-safe oil and following proper care guidelines, your wood cutting boards will not only look stunning but also provide you with a safe and reliable surface for all your culinary creations. Remember, by maintaining your cutting board you invest in both your kitchen’s functionality and the health of your family.


Looking to buy a quality hardwood cutting board? Check out our blog post on the best wood cutting boards of 2023. There we cover everything you need to know before purchasing a wood cutting board and how it compares to contemporary plastic cutting boards.


Discover our premium selection of teak cutting boards, crafted with care from sustainably sourced teak wood. For more tips on teak wood care and teak’s unique applications, check out our other previous blogs on our website. Happy cooking!











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