"Simply walk into any kitchen shop and will be astounded by the number of choices for cutting boards. They come in various sizes, shapes, materials, and price tags. Unless you are an expert cook, you will probably just choose one at random. However, the following information is designed to help remove the mystery from these handy culinary tools.
Wood Versus Plastic
When studies on the safety of cutting boards began gaining attention, people began to debate whether to buy plastic or wood boards. In fact, the answer to that question is still up for debate. Early studies showed that, when microbiologists deliberately contaminated both wooden and plastic cutting boards, the bacteria on wooden boards died off quickly, while the bacteria remained and even increased on the plastic boards. Shortly following these results, other studies have showed that bacteria was more easily washed off the plastic boards than their wooden rivals. Some culinary enthusiasts have their particular biases toward wood or plastic, but the general consensus seems to be that one should choose based on preference, but always clean the surface as thoroughly as possible.
Buying a Cutting Board
There are many factors to consider when choosing a cutting board. Before you make a purchase, consider the following:
Size ? Consider the size of your kitchen, how much of a prominent role you want your cutting board to play, and how much room you have to work with. Also consider the size of your sink, and whether the entire board will fit inside it. When you are washing the board, it is important to cover every inch with soap and hot water in order to avoid bacteria growth.
Thickness ? How heavy is the board? If it is so heavy that you will dread using it, that would be counterproductive. Even if you are using it for bulky meats, it does not need to be weighty.
Shape ? If you want to use your board as a serving platter, you may consider purchasing more than one. A smaller board will look elegant with just a few slices of cheese on it, whereas a larger board would serve better during large-scale entertaining. Boards are typically rectangular, square, or round.
Style ? You may want to choose a style that complements your kitchen or one based on convenience.
Cost ? Cutting boards run from approximately $8 to over $200, with the main difference between them being the materials used to make the board and issues of durability. If you are someone who rarely cooks, you can easily get away with an inexpensive board; however, if you are an enthusiast or professional cook, a higher quality board may be best.
Caring For Your Cutting Board
The most important step in avoiding food contamination is to wash your board thoroughly with soap and hot water after every use. Wash both sides, even if only one side was used. You should also clean the counter area where you used the board.
Coating your board with a light warm oil before its initial use, and then every month, will help prevent odors and stains from sinking in. Keep your board dry when it is not in use. Moisture is a breeding ground for bacteria. If your board begins to show signs of cuts, grooves, or deep scratches, it is time to replace it. Otherwise, bacteria can easily settle in these nooks.
Make sure to clean the board thoroughly in between choppings, especially if you have been using it for raw meat, chicken, or seafood. As an extra precaution, consider using an occasional bleach rinse on your board. Plastic boards can be put in dishwashers, but this is not recommended for wooden boards as the washer may wear out the wood.
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