A cutting board is an essential tool in any kitchen, used for chopping, cutting, and preparing a variety of ingredients and dishes. It’s common for households to have at least two cutting boards, but many may not know the proper way to choose, use, and maintain them effectively.
1. Wooden Cutting Boards
Wooden cutting boards are a popular choice in kitchens due to their elasticity and weight, making food preparation easy. However, they tend to warp, crack, absorb water, and retain odors. In humid climates, they can also develop mold. So, how should wooden cutting boards be cared for?
When purchasing a wooden cutting board, opt for one with a vertical grain. Boards with a horizontal grain, cut into sections, allow water and food to penetrate the wood. Regular surface cleaning isn’t enough to remove the dirt that has seeped into the board, which can later flake off into your food, causing digestive issues and intestinal inflammation.
As soon as you buy a wooden cutting board, soak it in a saline solution of 200g of salt per liter of water for a day and night. This process cleans the wood and ensures the board doesn’t absorb too much water, preventing cracks. After soaking, let the board air-dry completely to maintain the right moisture level and prevent future cracks.
To disinfect your wooden cutting board, sprinkle salt on its surface and rub with half a lemon. This will clean the board and inhibit bacterial growth. Afterward, rinse and dry the board with a soft cloth.
To prevent the board from flaking and emitting unpleasant odors, avoid using chemical cleaning agents. Instead, opt for natural disinfectants like lemon, salt, white vinegar, and boiling water, followed by air-drying in a well-ventilated area.
2. Plastic Cutting Boards
Plastic cutting boards are favored by many due to their non-absorbent, durable nature, and resistance to crumbling. However, they are not built to withstand heavy force, and chopping hard ingredients or bones on them can lead to cracks and damage to your knife’s edge.
When using a plastic cutting board, keep the following in mind:
– Avoid pressing down too hard with your knife, as this can create grooves on the board’s surface, providing crevices for bacteria to thrive and accelerating the board’s wear and tear.
– To remove stains and discoloration, soak the board in vinegar or lemon juice for two hours, then wash with dish soap and rinse with boiling water. This will help extend the life of your plastic cutting board.
3. Glass Cutting Boards
Glass cutting boards, made from tempered glass, don’t crumble, oxidize, and are easy to clean. However, their hard surface can dull knives and isn’t suitable for chopping or cutting. Additionally, their smooth surface can cause knives to slip, posing a safety hazard. Glass cutting boards are best used for slicing fruits, vegetables, soft foods, and cooked meats like roasts and cold cuts.
After use, hang the board in a dry, sunny area to inhibit bacterial growth. Replace the board every six months, or when cracks, black spots, or strange odors develop. When purchasing, opt for reputable brands with clear origin and safety markings that meet food safety standards.
Proper cleaning of cutting boards is crucial to food safety. A dirty cutting board can transfer harmful bacteria to your food. When cleaning, avoid using excessive chemical cleaners, and instead, opt for natural disinfectants like lemon, salt, white vinegar, and boiling water.
It’s important to have separate cutting boards for raw and cooked foods to prevent cross-contamination and ensure food safety.
According to Phap Luat va Ban Doc (Law and Readers)
8 Common Mistakes People Make with Cutting Boards
Are you using your cutting board correctly? Many Vietnamese households rely on cutting boards in their kitchen, but not everyone knows how to use them properly, especially when it comes to wooden cutting boards. Check out these 8 mistakes to avoid when using a cutting board to ensure both hygiene and safety for everyone in your family.
Is Refrigerated Leftovers Linked to an Increased Risk of Cancer?
Dr. Lam Van Man, Head of Research, Development and Technology Transfer Department of the Institute of Safety Food, has warned of the risk of food poisoning when reheating leftovers from the refrigerator. But what should we be aware of when it comes to the possibility of these leftovers causing cancer? Here, we explore what the experts have to say on the matter and offer some tips for safe eating.
Preserving Leftover Food from the Tet Holiday
With the beginning of the Lunar New Year, many households are stocking up on food to celebrate the festive occasion. While keeping food in the refrigerator is convenient, it can also be harmful to users if not done correctly. We have compiled a few tips to help ensure food remains fresh and safe to consume during Tet.