Sanitation and Durability – Wood Countertops versus…
Butcher Blocks have long been counted on as a food preparation surface. Grounded in both form and function, hardwood countertops have long been a popular choice for a stylish and elegant alternative to granite or quartz. In the beginning, though, hardwood counters were used specifically for one thing, getting abused. Butchers have used maple butcher blocks for chopping up massive quantities of meat for centuries. Only fairly recently did it begin to catch on a beautiful option for domestic use.
What makes wood such a great option for food preparation is both the durability, and its resistance to harmful bacterial elements. Dean O. Cliver, PhD from University of California, Davis, states that while wood is a porous surface, once bacteria seeps into the wood; it quickly dies and becomes a non-factor. While a surface like plastic or laminate takes cuts from food prep where the bacteria can seep into and be difficult to get out. You also save your knives edges when cutting on a wood surface, especially with an end grain construction. The knife cuts into the end of the board, splitting the fibers of the wood. Imagine a hair-brush, and karate chopping the bristles. The bristles will just separate around your hand. The same thing happens when cutting on an end grain surface, preserving the edge of your knives.
In the conversation about durability as it pertains to wood countertops, perspective and context are essential. Does wood scratch? Of course! Every surface does…but are scratches an eye sore in wood? Not at all… As a matter of fact some people pay extra for the “distressed” look. Wood is not capable of looking incorrect, it is a natural product. Used. Worn. Loved. Never incorrect. Wear and tear show only how valuable of a piece of furniture it is. Start designing your own bespoke, heirloom quality top here.
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