Replies

1. 
   Bob_Berner | Nov 21, 2000 04:21pm | #1

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   This is realted to a the common "what finish is safe for a cutting board" question. I would use a type II PVA glue, Tightbond II is a popular one. I believe the the liquid glue is non-toxic, and certainly the dried glue should be. Even so, you should not have enough glue in contact with the surface of the cutting board to cause a problem. You can clean the cutting board with a wipe or two of a soapy dishcloth followed by a quick rinse and towel drying without weakening the glue. Just don't immerse the board in hot water for any lenght of time.

   More important than the glue being harmful, is the species of wood used. Do not use an open pored wood like oak or ash if you are concerned about getting sick. Food can be trapped in the pores and be a haven for bacteria. Maple, beech, cherry, etc are much better choices for cutting board stock. We have an Ash cutting board at home, finished with boiled linseed oil, that we only use for breads, it never sees more than a slightly damp cloth and we don't put any "wet" food on it. Hope this helps.

   Bob

1. 
   Chris_Cioni | Dec 07, 2000 07:01am | #2

   *Bob,On the subject of cutting boards ...Which wood species are preferred? Are any considered toxic (e.g., tropical hardwoods)?Thank you,Chris C.

1. 
   Bob_Berner | Dec 10, 2000 08:12pm | #3

   *Hi Chris, I am not an expert, I just play on on TV. Sorry about that, just kidding. I've mentioned a few examples in my previous reply, and I'm sure there are tropical woods to avoid for use in contact with food but I can't name any. Perhaps Jon Arno or Stanley N. will see this and offer some advice. Bob

1. 
   Dan_Turner | Jan 28, 2001 09:22pm | #4

   *dunk, use polyurethane glue, such as Gorilla brand. Impervious to moisture, fills in minor imperfections, and holds better than any other glue out there. it is ideal.

1. 
   Stanley_Niemiec | Jan 30, 2001 05:02am | #5

   *I would recommend you avoid woods rated as decay resistant because of the types of extractive compounds contained in the wood. But using that determinant, that would exclude both cherry and black walnut which I know are used regularly.