The best cutting boards can save you valuable time preparing dishes, especially if you often have dinner parties. However, so many types of cutting boards are available, so it could be difficult to know which is best for you.
First, let's consider the material and weight of the cutting board. There are various types of cutting boards on the market, such as wood, rubber and plastic. They come in various sizes, so we think you will successfully find the one best for you.
Also, what type of features does it have? Most cutting boards have grooves that catch liquids and are designed to reduce spills.
This article helps you decide which cutting board for raw meat fits your kitchen needs, lifestyle, and budget.
How We Have Selected The Best Options
It can be difficult to find the perfect cutting board for your needs. You might not have the time to do all of the research yourself, and you might not even know what to look for in a cutting board.
We've got you covered. Our editors have taken the time to learn about each and every one of our cutting boards so that we can recommend the best ones for you and your home. Whether you're looking for a bamboo cutting board, a plastic cutting board, or something else, we've got you covered.
1. Sonder Los Angeles: Maple Cutting Board
Why We Love It
Strong and durable
The Sonder Los Angeles Wood Cutting Board features a closed-grain structure that is more durable and long-lasting than other models on the market. Maple is suitable for a large cutting butcher block due to its resistence to moisture, scarring, and dirt.
A pretty design that you want to decorate
Using a multicolored wood-tone stripe becomes an accent of the dark wood of the other part and is finished to a very attractive board. However, there are individual differences in the appearance of the grain, and each grain is unique. Because it is so attractive, some cooks may save the board for presentation and use it more aggressively kitchen use.
What You Should Know
Price
The main disadvantage is the price. This cutting board is about twice the price of other boards, like bamboo and plastic models. Another disadvantage is the weight; it's about 8 pounds in 1.5 inches thick, this board will feel heavy for people who are used to thin bamboo and plastic boards or those with limited storage.
2. Architect: Recycled Plastic and Flax Husk Cutting Board
Why We Love It
Stability
The architect's cutting board is is great alternative to a classic plastic cutting board. It's made from food-grade plastic and flas husk. The plastic is made from 20+ containers that would have gone in the landfill. The appearance also features a 12×16 inch surface, 3/8 inches thick.
This stable board weighs apparoximately 1.85 pounds.
Made from recycled materials
They used recycled materials such as food plastics and flax shells. You can protect more than 20 plastic containers from garbage disposal by purchasing one eco-smart product.
The EcoSmart items are made for life, but if they don't last long, Architects offer a recycling program. It is durable, functional, and eco-friendly. It is perfect for any food, such as a platter or serving.
What You Should Know
It does not have self-healing properties.
Unlike wood cutting boards, plastics do not have "self-healing power." Over time, this cutting board becomes so damaged that it cannot be properly sterilized. It gets too scarred up, and bacteria are absorbed in the deep crevices, even after washing. Then it's time to replace the plastic cutting board.
3. Royal Craft: Bamboo Cutting Board
Why We Love It
Best value for money
If you want to buy the best Bamboo Board that you can get for a minimum amount, there is no way other than the Royal Craft-Bamboo Series. These products can be used for all rounds regardless of price, but this model is difficult to beat at this low price. The model has a deep juice groove and recessed handle, making it easy to pinch even on a smooth surface.
Like many other bamboo products, Royal Craft-Bamboo also requires maintenance. But generally speaking, it should be treated at least once a month, overall less oil than most other bamboo and hardwood models.
Maintenance dishwasher not available
This board should not be washed in a dishwasher or soaked in water. Hand wash with soap and water, dry by hand, and dry completely before storing. Even if only one side of the board is used, the manufacturer says both sides need to be evenly wet when cleaning. If necessary, apply oil from time to time with mineral oil or board conditioner. If the knife's blade becomes deep, sand it to repair the surface.
What You Should Know
Versatility
It's wise to invest in a reversible cutting board that can be used for other tasks such as chopping, horning, and mincing, as you don't always cut meat. However, this cutting board is not versatile.
4. Elihome: Wood Fiber Cutting Board
Why We Love It
Perfect size
Elihome's medium cutting board is the perfect size for daily meal preparation. Made from a sustainable material of high-density pine leaves, this American wood fiber cutting board is durable and Eco-friendly. The reversible design allows you to choose between two sides of the board depending on the ingredients, and the deep groove design takes flour, liquid, sticky or acidic drip from spilling over the counter. The built-in thumb hole and easy-to-hold handle facilitate movement in the kitchen, and the heat-resistant surface can be used as a trivet. This cutting board can be washed in the dishwasher and has a lifetime warranty.
It is a hygienic cutting board
According to the FDA, plastic and wood cutting boards are hygenic if they are properly washed and replaced on time. Elihome wood cutting board has hygienic benefits. It can be easily washed in a dishwasher. It has a natural antibacterial agent, so there is potentially less chance of missing every nook and cranny where bacteria may be collected.
What Should You know?
Can Warp
Elihome cutting boards can be washed in the dishwasher but is not recommended due to the possibility of warping. Warping and bending can happen if boards are presented with too much heat. Also, the board's colors may go off if not cared for properly.
5. Epicurean: Composite Cutting Board
Why We Love It
It is eco-friendly
The Epicurean cutting board is made from Richlite. It is a composite product made by crimping hundreds of sheets of paper. Using pressure and heat, individual sheets fuse to form a strong board.
Like wood products, paper products can be eco-friendly if they are sourced with sustainability.
Like other cutting boards, the Epicurean brand focuses on environmentally conscious production.
It can be washed and dried.
Epicurean cutting boards are dishwasher safe, which is a big selling point. The paper composites used in epicurean cutting boards can be warped if they continue to be exposed to moisture, just like wood. Epicurean cutting boards and wood boards can be washed in the same way, but wood board owners seem to be a bit more sensitive to the risk of getting wet.
What Should You Know
Easily damaged
Epicurean cutting boards are more friendly to knives than super hard surfaces like glass and metal. Paper composites can be made to simulate the softness of wood, but wood does not have natural wood grain fiber, which is the best surface for receiving the strokes of a knife. Composite has a nonporous surface which is a bit softer than a plastic board.
Finally, the epicurean board offers no aesthetic value. Paper composites are products that provide a simple, uniform surface. All boards are the same, with no unique wood grain or color the wood.
If you like the sound of this board, Epicurean also made a cutting board with grooves along the edge to catch the juices and non-slip feet.
How To Buy the Best Cutting Board For Raw Meat
When buying the best cutting board for raw meat, you must consider the various functions and find what you need.
1. Materials
The first thing to notice is the material. There are many types of cutting boards, each with its characteristics.
Plastic
When it comes to cutting raw meat, many people prefer to use plastic cutting boards. Plastic boards are nonporous, making them less likely to become contaminated with bacteria. In addition, plastic boards are usually less expensive and lighter than wood cutting boards. However, there are some drawbacks to using a plastic cutting board. First of all, plastic is not very durable, and it can easily become scratched or stained. The cuts in the board made by knives can cause hiding spots for bacteria, so ensure you wash your board thoroughly. Secondly, plastic is not biodegradable and is not as environmentally friendly as wood. However, they are more affordable, thinner, and lighter than other cutting boards made of different materials.
Wood
Cutting boards made of bamboo and wood can be difficult to clean and care for. It shouldn't be put in a dishwasher. Also, most wood-cutting boards must be treated with food oil to protect and prevent cracking. However, most chefs and cooks prefer wood boards to protect all kinds of knives from blunting and damage.
Wooden cutting boards are made of natural materials, so they are also eco-friendly. Wood cutting boards, like many plants, naturally contain antibacterial agents that kill bacteria quickly, so they can also prevent bacterial growth.
In addition, the wood cutting board brings a special beauty to the dining table, and the reason many people use it to provide certain foods such as cheese and meat is much more with charcuterie boards. However, preparing separate boards for food production and cutting raw meat for hygienic reasons is recommended.
Glass
Suppose you're looking for an attractive and functional cutting board. In that case, you may want to consider a glass cutting board. Glass boards are quite durable, relatively inexpensive, do not retain any bacteria or germs once washed, are dishwasher safe, and are quite attractive. They can also serve double duty in protecting your countertops from hot pots and pans. Glass boards come in various colors and styles, so you're sure to find one that fits your kitchen décor. And because they're so easy to clean, you'll be able to keep your glass board looking new for years to come.
However, even though they are a good option for cutting meat, they are not recommended since a major drawback of glass boards is that they will cause damage to your knives.
Composite
Composite cutting boards are usually made of natural fiber material and are characterized by durability and ease of maintenance. It looks like a wooden board, but it requires less maintenance. However, these cutting boards may not be suitable for knives, which can cause them to become dull over time.
2. Grooves
A good way to use it as a cutting board for raw meat is to have deep grooves at the edges that reliably catch the juices and liquids. Although not common to all types of cutting boards, an important function of the cutting board for meat is the groove for the cup. Grooves in the edges of the cutting boards catch all the excess juices that come out when cutting raw meats. This groove allows all the liquid to be kept inside the board so the counter can be kept clean. Also, because the juice goes into the grooves, the center of the board is less messy, so your hands do not get sticky when cutting, and you can keep it clean.
Of course, if there is a juice groove, the workspace will be narrow compared to a flat cutting board. A flat cutting board is good for cutting vegetables, but if you are cutting more juicy materials such as meat and vegetables like tomatoes, it will assist you in keeping all things around you neat.
3. Non-Slip Edges
For safety and efficiency, cutting boards must remain in place when cutting or chopping food preparation. Some have rubber stoppers on the bottom, while others are attached to each corner. Heavy cutting boards are usually held in place during use but can be difficult to lift for cleaning.
4. Size
The size is also an important point of the cutting board. Choose a size you can lift, maneuver, and store. Also, ensure that the board has enough space for what you'll be cutting.
5. Maintenance
The wooden cutting board takes a quick wash and a little time. Thanks to its unique structure, the cutting board of the end material can maintain the quality without requiring much time and effort. Sometimes you can apply oil to keep it in better condition.
Like hardwood, bamboo boards don't work with dishwashers, so just washing with water isn't enough to get rid of the problem. You may also need to apply oil frequently to maintain that condition.
The plastic board can be washed in the dishwasher, so no special maintenance is required. However, frequent washing in a dishwasher may eventually result in a warp. Also, bacteria can infiltrate inside the wound and reproduce if many wounds are damaged during use. Therefore, you must clean the board before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a cutting board as well as a carving board?
A cutting board could be utilized for various foods, but a carving board is mainly used for cutting and placing meat. They often rely on a cutting board to cut vegetables and fruits and a carving board to cut meat. Also, the carving board often has a groove to collect the gravy, but the cutting board also has this function.
What cutting board material hurt the knife?
One of the most important rules for taking care of your knives is to avoid using them on hard surfaces. Granite, marble, ceramic, and glass cutting boards are much harder than steel, and chopping on them will quickly dull your blade. Not only does this make your knife less effective, but it also puts you at risk of injury.
A dull knife is more likely to slip, and a damaged edge can be very sharp. So, next time you're tempted to use your knife on a hard surface, resist the urge and reach for a cutting board instead. Your knives will thank you for it!
Can I use olive oil for the cutting board?
Olive oil may rot, so do not use it on cutting boards. They may also become sticky. To prevent the drying of wooden boards, use food-safe mineral oil once every 3-4 weeks.
Can you put raw meat on a wood-cutting board?
Yes, you can put raw meat on a wooden board. However, you will need to clean the cutting board properly afterward to prevent bacteria from spreading.
Wood is a porous material, so bacteria can easily hide in the tiny crevices on the surface. To clean a wood cutting board properly, use hot water and dish soap to scrub it down, and then rinse it off with hot water. You may also want to spray it with an antibacterial cleaner to kill any remaining bacteria.
How do I care for the cutting board?
Gentle rubbing with soap and hot water is the best way to care for the cutting board. Cutting boards compatible with dishwashers should be washed with tap water and run into the dishwasher to remove any food stuck to the cutting boards.
In addition, heavy wood cutting boards need to fill the pores to keep the surface clean, prevent bacterial contamination, and sometimes oil application to prevent drying and cracking.
Which kind of cutting board for raw meat is the most hygienic?
According to the FDA, plastic and wood cutting boards are hygienic if properly washed and replaced on time. Wood and plastic have hygienic benefits. Plastic can be easily washed in a dishwasher. Still, wood is a natural antibacterial agent, so there is potentially less chance of missing every nook and cranny where bacteria may be collected.
Summary
As mentioned earlier, there are a few things to consider when selecting a meat cutting board. Choosing the right cutting board by material, size, function, and cost is no easy task. Also, the cutting board for raw meat has different needs from other food such as vegetables, so it should not be considered with the same standards as other cutting boards for food.
Hopefully, you know everything you need to look for to make informed decisions on your new kitchen items.
Here is the list of items reviewed:
1. Sonder Los Angeles: Maple Cutting Board
2. Architect: Recycled Plastic and Flax Husk Cutting Board
3. Royal Craft: Bamboo Cutting Board
