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The Surprising Wood Finish that Makes Food Contact Safe & Waterproof

Creating wood projects that will come in contact with food requires using finishes that are non-toxic and waterproof. While many assume standard finishes get the job done, choosing food safe options specifically designed for food contact is crucial.

While finishes like tung oil and beeswax provide moderate protection, one surprising option offers an optimal combination of food safety and waterproofing - food grade mineral oil.

Food Safe Considerations for Wood Finishes

When a wood item will be used for food prep or serving, it's essential the finish is food safe. This means it is free from toxic chemicals that could leach into food.

Many commonly used wood finishes contain solvents, petrochemicals, and other components that pose toxicity risks. Even after curing, trace amounts may remain that could transfer to food. Using a finish labeled as food safe ensures safety.

food safe waterproof wood finish

Standards for Food Contact Surfaces

Authoritative bodies like the FDA provide guidance and regulations around food safe materials. For example, the FDA Food Code regulates cutting boards, utensils, and other food contact surfaces.

While regulation is limited, following food safe guidelines helps woodworkers make informed finish choices.

Allowing Proper Curing Time

Using the right food safe finish is only part of the equation. Proper curing time is also critical before food makes contact. This gives time for toxic components to gas out and for finish to fully harden.

Always check manufacturer recommendations and wait several weeks after final coat to allow for complete curing.

Achieving Water Resistance in Wood Finishes

In addition to food safety, wood items like cutting boards and prep bowls also need protection from water damage. Excess moisture can warp wood, cause swelling, and promote mold or bacteria.

A waterproof wood finish prevents this damage by creating a protective barrier. However, true waterproofing often relies on synthetic finishes.

Penetrating vs. Film-Building Finishes

Penetrating finishes like oil soak into wood pores without leaving a surface film. These provide moderate water resistance. Film builds up on the surface to seal wood. Synthetic finishes excel at waterproof film building.

Finding a food safe finish with sufficient water resistance depends on the right choice and application method. Let's explore some options.

Common Wood Finishing Options

Tung Oil

Derived from natural tung nuts, tung oil penetrates wood well for moderate protection. It contains natural hydrophobic oils that repel water while letting wood breathe.

Tung oil provides some water resistance for items like cutting boards, but requires frequent reapplication for best results.

Polyurethane

Standard polyurethane is extremely durable and waterproof. But toxicity from petrochemicals prevents food safe use. It's best reserved for projects without food contact.

Beeswax and Oil

Mixing beeswax with oils like coconut or olive oil creates a natural finish. While not fully waterproof, the wax and oil absorb slightly into wood while providing protection from moisture damage.

This finish needs reapplication over time but is food safe when cured.

Epoxy Resin

Epoxy resin is a two-part finish that cures into a hard, completely waterproof coating. Toxicity during curing requires full dry time before food use. But when cured, epoxy resin provides a food safe option.

Surprising Option - Food Grade Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is generally considered unsafe for food contact. However, food grade mineral oil offers a surprising combination of food safety and water resistance.

Food Grade vs. Standard

Derived from petroleum, food grade mineral oil is purified to remove harmful components. This pharmaceutical-grade oil safely penetrates wood pores without toxicity concerns.

Protection Against Water

The penetrating oil helps seal wood while allowing the surface to breathe. It provides moderate water resistance better than some natural oils. While not as strong as epoxy or polyurethane, it performs well for items like cutting boards, salad bowls, and rolling pins.

Easy Application

Food grade mineral oil is affordable, easy to apply, and find. Simply rub into wood and allow to absorb. Reapply regularly for best results. It's an ideal option for woodworkers concerned about food safety and water damage.

Application Tips and Tricks

Properly applying any wood finish is key for safety, protection, and longevity. Here are some tips:

Creating beautiful wood projects for food requires balancing safety and water resistance. While many finishes seem to fit the bill, food grade mineral oil surprisingly provides an optimal combination of penetration for food safe protection and waterproofing.

Keep limitations of any finish in mind, follow directions carefully, and reapply when needed. But with food safe options like mineral oil, woodworkers can expand their creativity while keeping their creations--and food--safe.