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byIleana Morales Valentine
Updated:
Originally Published:
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Wooden cutting boards need a little TLC every now and then, but not just any oil will do for maintenance. When shopping for the best cutting board oils, opt for a food-grade mineral oil or a fractionated coconut oil. You can also find cutting board conditioners that pack an extra punch of hydration.
What To Look For In A Cutting Board Oil
Mineral oil is the standard for conditioning wooden cutting boards (as well as wooden cooking spoons and bowls) for its resistance to oxidation and odorless, flavorless nature. Be sure to look for food-grade mineral oil or oil labeled as USP grade, which is processed to pharmaceutical standards and is also food-grade.
Some cooks may prefer a petroleum-free alternative to mineral oil, but you want to be careful to choose an oil that won’t absorb into the wood and potentially turn rancid like most cooking oils will. Fractionated coconut oil can moisturize a wooden cutting board without going rancid, and no, it won’t make your food taste like coconut.
Shop The Best Cutting Board Oils
In a hurry? These are the best cutting board oils:
Any of the oils below will hydrate your wood and in doing so make them less permeable to water or stains, which also helps keep bacteria at bay. With all this in mind, below are the best cutting board oils, including a moisturizing conditioner that incorporates oils and wax for extra hydration.