Replies

1. 
   AlbionWood | Jul 01, 2004 08:08pm | #1

   All finishes are safe for this application, once they are fully cured.  Be aware that full curing might take a month for oil-based finishes, and anything that contains solvents will take some time for the smell to dissipate completely.

   If the loaves will be cool when put into the box, shellac or lacquer would be fine - they dry rapidly, so you could use the box right away.  If hot fresh loaves might go into it, shellac is a poor choice as it is heat-susceptible.  Polyurethane varnish is probably as good as anything, but you will need to give it plenty of time for the smell to dissipate.  I wouldn't use oil-based finishes for this, they take too long to cure, except polymerized oil (Sutherland Welles etc.) which cures quite rapidly.

   For more information about the myth of "food-safe" finishes, see:

   http://www.popularwoodworking.com/features/finish3.html

   "Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler."  A. Einstein

   http://www.albionworks.net

1. 
   Mike59 | Jul 01, 2004 10:12pm | #2

   I thank you for that valuable information.  I believe I will use a water base stain and polyurathane sealer.

1. 
   nikkiwood | Jul 02, 2004 09:27am | #3

   I second the comments about the safety of oil finishes once cured. Behlen sold a lot of their "Salad Bowl Finish" by thinly implying that other oils were not "safe."

   On the other hand, you must wait a minimum of 30 days for an oil to fully cure (Watco), and it might take even longer for the smell to dissipate completely -- particularly inside an enclosed area (i.e. a breadbox).

   The WB finishes do seem the way to go; but I would still not load up the new box with hot loaves for a few weeks. And during that time, I would keep the box open.

2. 
   Gretchen | Jul 02, 2004 03:58pm | #4

   I would never use an oil base inside a food container, not because it isn't toxic but I think it will react with wrappers, etc.  Why not just leave it unfinished.

   Gretchen
1. 
   Mike59 | Jul 08, 2004 03:07pm | #5

   Gretchen,

   After considering all my options, I believe the safe route is to follow your suggestion.

   Thanks for the help.

   PS: Sorry about responding so late, I was in northern Michigan playing golf in the cold rain.