On chopping boards, people frequently cut their fruits and vegetables. people began using hardwood cutting boards instead of plastic ones after research revealed the negative impacts of plastic ones.
 
However, did you realize that wooden boards might be harmful to your health?
 
The wooden chopping board
 
By its very nature, wood is permeable. It readily absorbs moisture from the items we cut, including raw chicken pieces, garlic, and tomatoes. This wetness promotes the growth of germs and fungus, according to varsha Gor, senior clinical dietician at Apollo Hospitals in Navi Mumbai.
 
These wooden cutting boards become damaged over time. Cleaning these tiny fractures properly is challenging. As a result, dangerous bacteria such as Salmonella, E. Coli, and Listeria begin to proliferate within them. In addition to contaminating the food, these bacteria are harmful to human health.
 
Small timber fragments from these boards eventually mingle with culinary products. Unknowingly ingesting them can exacerbate gastric health, according to doctors.
 
The Risks Associated With Wooden Cutting Boards
 
Fever: Salmonella and E. coli can be found on wooden cutting boards that have not been thoroughly cleaned. This may result in foodborne infections. Fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal illnesses, including nausea and dehydration, can also result from it. The elderly and young children are especially vulnerable to these illnesses.
Damage to the gastrointestinal tract: Old cutting boards may contain tiny wood chips or other wood particles that might enter the body and endanger the intestines.
Contamination: It's common for us to chop fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat on the same board. However, there is a chance that this procedure can spread dangerous microbes from one meal to another.
 
Which Alternatives Are Safer?
 
Bamboo: A substitute for wood is bamboo. It is also a long-lasting and eco-friendly substance. Compared to conventional hardwood boards, bamboo has fewer holes and doesn't absorb water.
Boards made of glass or acrylic are non-porous and simple to maintain.
Steel boards: Due to their extended lifespan, stainless steel boards have gained popularity recently. They are also very easy to clean and have no holes in them.
 
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Wooden Cutting Board

SIBY JEYYA

11/02/2025 09:06 AM