Stop Using Oak, Ash and Mahogony for Cutting Boards! Here’s What You Need To Know!
The Hidden Danger Lurking in Open-Grain Woods: Why Oak, Ash and Mahogany Are NOT as Safe For To Use As Cutting Boards!
Oak, ash, and mahogany all suffer from open grain. This means their pores are large and allow liquids (and bacteria) to seep into the wood. Sure, oak looks beautiful and has a storied reputation for furniture and flooring. But when it comes to cutting boards, those tiny channels in open-grain woods can trap moisture and bacteria, making them harder to sanitize.
Reference:
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Food Safety and Wood Cutting Boards
(Summarizes Dr. Dean O. Cliver’s research on how wooden cutting boards can inhibit bacteria—if the wood has a closed grain.)
Bacterial Hideouts
Let’s make it crystal clear: the issue isn’t just about “hardness.” It’s about pore structure. A super-hard wood is irrelevant if it’s full of deep pores that turn into bacterial hideouts. Once trapped inside, bacteria can thrive, especially if you’re not meticulously cleaning and drying your board.
Reference:
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FDA Food Code (2017)
(While it doesn’t explicitly ban open-grain woods, it emphasizes that materials should be “smooth and easily cleanable.” Open-grain woods don’t exactly fit that bill.)
Misconceptions About Hardwoods
Plenty of exotic hardwoods (teak, iroko, and mahogany, for instance) look gorgeous, but they either contain high levels of natural oil, silica, or have large pores. That can lead to:
- Dulling your knives (thanks, teak).
- Weird odors or flavors imparted to your food (some tropical hardwoods contain strong natural oils).
- Bacterial growth if there’s wide open grain.
Throwing Gas on the Fire (Why It’s Controversial)
Wooden cutting boards have a bit of a cult following—and for good reason. Research has shown wood can be more sanitary than plastic if cared for properly. But that’s where oak and other open-grain hardwoods muddy the waters. They blur the line between “hardness” and actual “food safety.” Many old-school chefs swear by oak for aesthetic reasons, claiming the right oiling and proper drying can keep bacteria at bay. While that may be partially true if you’re obsessively vigilant, the risk is still higher than if you used a closed-grain hardwood.
So, if you’re into living on the edge and love a challenge, go ahead—pick an open-grain board. But don’t say we didn’t warn you when that board starts smelling funky or harbors a bacterial colony you can’t seem to scrub away.
How to Spot an Unsafe Board
- Large, Visible Pores: Run your finger across the surface. If you can feel open pores or grain ridges, be cautious.
- Excessive Cracks or End Grain: End-grain boards (like butcher blocks) are fine if made from tight-grain wood, but in open-grain species, those ends can soak up juices like a sponge.
- High Oil Content or Silica: Teak has high silica, which is notorious for dulling knives. Exotic hardwoods sometimes have oils that can cause rancid odors over time.
Bottom Line
Hardness alone doesn’t make a wood “good” for cutting boards. Oak is proof of that. If you’re serious about food safety and longevity, stick to closed-grain classics like maple, walnut, or cherry. Let others flirt with controversy by carving up their brisket on oak or exotic hardwoods. You’ll be the one quietly enjoying a cleaner, safer, and more durable surface for years to come.
Let customers speak for us
Stephanie McLeod
Spectacular quality
Received my board today and it’s beautiful. From the packaging that is filled with warmth when you open the box to the out standing workmanship. The quality of the board is exceptional, even to the personalized engraving. You can feel the creativity, love and heart and soul that Charlene and Jason put into their designs and the passion for what they create.
The DAILY BLOCK: 12x8 Edge Grain Maple Cutting Board
MONICA R.
Gorgeous and Fast!!!
This board is INCREDIBLE! Charlene handpicked the boards for the wood color and grain that I liked. I was able to select the boards that I liked, along with designs and engravings for the front and back of each board. She sent me pictures of the designs and fonts for approval. I ended up buying 4 boards. I know I will definitely buy from them again. Thank you for such great quality products and fast service!!!
Black Walnut Live Edge Charcuterie Boards - Heartwood
Jessie kahtava
Beautiful cribbage board
I am thoroughly impressed with my customized cribbage board, which arrived today and far exceeded my expectations. It not only arrived ahead of the anticipated delivery date, but it was also securely packaged, ensuring no damage. Upon unboxing, I was pleased to see the care and attention given to the packaging. The board itself is made from exquisite, solid wood and is even more beautiful than described. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail truly make this cribbage board a standout piece. I look forward to many enjoyable years of use. Additionally, I was delighted to learn that a tree was planted with my purchase, adding an admirable eco-friendly touch.
Personalized Cribbage Board, Maple or Black Walnut Crib Boards with Live Edge Design, Rustic Game Board with Peg Storage, Custom Engraved Gifts, Fun Family Game
Kyle Taylor
Great Product & Awesome Communication
Jason was very thorough and went above and beyond to ensure my order was completed based on a tight deadline. The crib boards are top notch quality craftsmanship!!!
Handmade Unique Personalized Cribbage Board
Sally
Simply beautiful!
This board is stunning and arrived beautifully packaged. The love for their craft is so obvious in the quality of the board and how it was presented. This is a gift for some dear friends, and we couldn’t be prouder to be giving it to them. A heartfelt thanks to Jason and Charlene, not just for your talent but for your willingness to share it with others.
Black Walnut Live Edge Charcuterie Boards - Heartwood
Johanna
Great transaction, artisans did everything to make things right. Love the boards which were gift packed for giving!
Roots To Table
C Grexton
A Stunning and Functional Prep Board!
This board is an absolute showstopper! The combination of maple and walnut accents gives it a rustic yet refined look that stands out in my kitchen. It’s not just about aesthetics, though—the craftsmanship is top-tier, and you can feel the quality in every detail.
The size is perfect for daily meal prep, whether I’m chopping veggies, slicing bread, or serving a small charcuterie spread. It has just the right weight—sturdy but easy to handle—and the finish is incredibly smooth.
I also love how durable and gentle on knives it is. It doesn’t show excessive wear like cheaper boards, and the wood grain adds such a unique touch. If you're looking for a premium prep board that’s both practical and beautiful, this one is a must-have!
The Horizon: Maple and Walnut Accented Rustic Prep Board
Emily R
The Perfect Everyday Cutting Board!
I absolutely love this cutting board! The 12x8 size is ideal for daily meal prep—big enough to chop veggies and slice meats comfortably, but compact enough to store easily.
The DAILY BLOCK: 12x8 Edge Grain Maple & Walnut Accented Cutting Board
Emily R
Perfect for Everyday Use!
I’ve been using The Daily Block for a while now, and it’s hands down the best cutting board I’ve owned. The craftsmanship is outstanding—smooth finish, durable build, and just the right size for daily prep work. You can tell it’s made with care and high-quality wood.
The DAILY BLOCK: 12x8 Edge Grain Maple Cutting Board
Emily R
I absolutely love this Black Walnut Round Charcuterie Board!
I absolutely love this Black Walnut Round Charcuterie Board! The craftsmanship is stunning, and the rich walnut grain makes it a beautiful centerpiece for entertaining. It’s the perfect size for serving an elegant spread of cheeses, meats, and fruits. The handle makes it easy to carry and adds a unique touch. You can tell this was made with care, and the quality is outstanding. Highly recommend for anyone who loves hosting or giving a thoughtful, high-end gift!
The Black Walnut Round 12x12 Edge Grain Cutting Board
Maureen Zurby
Beautiful Craftsmanship & Perfect Gift!
I recently purchased the Personalized Wood Bread Board from Roots To Table, and I couldn’t be happier! The combination of maple and walnut gives it a stunning contrast, and the craftsmanship is top-notch. You can tell this board was made with care—the wood is smooth, well-finished, and has a nice weight to it.
The engraving turned out beautifully, adding a personal touch that made it an amazing gift. Whether for serving bread, charcuterie, or just as a decorative piece in the kitchen, this board is perfect. It’s durable, elegant, and truly unique.
Highly recommend it for anyone looking for a high-quality, handcrafted board. Will definitely be ordering more!
Bread Board: Personalized Bread and Butter Cutting & Serving Board Black Walnut & Maple
Julia Donaldson
Absolutely gorgeous! Such a beautiful piece.
Very impressed with the board, it was even more beautiful then i expected. Very happy!
Personalized Live Edge Charcuterie Board, Black Walnut Rustic Cheese Boards, Custom Engraved Wood Serving Tray Wedding & Housewarming Gift
Sarah Ferguson
Love love love these boards!
I bought four for my ladies night and everyone loved the boards. Was worried they wouldnt get here in time but the shipping was faster then expected.
Small Wine Appetizer Plates Set of 4, Personalized Appetizer Trays, Cocktail Plate, Handheld Appetizer Board, Small Plates for Gifts, Walnut
Chels
Great Customer Service & Beautiful Engraving
I love my new custom crib board! The engraving turned out perfect, and the walnut wood is stunning. Customer service was super friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!
Handmade Unique Personalized Cribbage Board
Chels
Great Customer Service & Beautiful Engraving
I love my new custom crib board! The engraving turned out perfect, and the walnut wood is stunning. Customer service was super friendly and helpful. Highly recommend!
Personalized Cribbage Board, Maple or Black Walnut Crib Boards with Live Edge Design, Rustic Game Board with Peg Storage, Custom Engraved Gifts, Fun Family Game