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.
🤝As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through our links, at ZERO additional cost to you.
5 Cutting Boards for Raw Meat
- Best Overall: Sonder Los Angeles: Maple Cutting Board
- Best for Eco-Conscious Users: Architect: Recycled Plastic and Flax Husk Cutting Board
- Best on a Budget: Royal Craft: Bamboo Cutting Board
- Best for Easy Cleaning: Elihome, Wood Fiber Cutting Board
- Best for Durability: Epicurean: Composite Cutting Board
1. Best Overall
What We Love
- Durability: Durable and long-lasting due to its closed-grain structure.
- Design: Attractive multicolored wood-tone stripe design.
- Multipurpose: Built-in Cracker Well for food prep or serving.
- Deep Juice Groove: Prevents messy countertops.
What to Keep in Mind
- Price: Higher price point compared to bamboo and plastic models.
- Weight: Heavier weight (8 pounds) may be challenging for some users.
Why It Might Be Right for You
If you're someone who values both functionality and aesthetics in your kitchen tools, the Sonder Los Angeles Maple Cutting Board might be the perfect addition to your kitchen.
Imagine preparing your meals on this durable, uniquely grained board, then using the same beautiful piece to serve guests at your dinner party.
Yes, it's a bit of an investment, but for the quality and versatility it offers, it could be a worthwhile one. Remember, the kitchen is the heart of the home, and this board could be a piece that brings joy to your cooking and serving experiences.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
- Just got this amazing cutting board, and I'm thrilled it's American made and from a small business! It's top-notch quality with beautiful grain and a sturdy build. The juice catcher is a bonus for tomato lovers like us. Plus, their customer service is outstanding - they answered my questions promptly. I'm using walrus brand oil to maintain it, and I believe it'll last for many years with proper care.
2. Best for Eco-Conscious Users
What We Love
- Stability: With a 12x16 inch surface and 3/8 inches thick, this board offers a stable cutting surface.
- Eco-friendly: Made from recycled food-grade plastic and flax husk, purchasing one of these boards can prevent more than 20 plastic containers from ending up in landfills.
What to Keep in Mind
- No Self-Healing Properties: Unlike wood, this plastic board doesn't have self-healing properties. Over time, it can become too scarred for proper sterilization, requiring replacement.
Why It Might Be Right for You
If you're an eco-conscious individual who values stability in your kitchen tools, the Architec EcoSmart PolyFlax Cutting Board could be a perfect fit.
Imagine contributing to a greener planet while preparing your favorite meals on this sturdy, recycled board. It's not just a cutting board, it's a statement of your commitment to the environment.
And when it's time for a new one, you can take comfort in knowing that Architec offers a recycling program.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
- Only had it for a week, but already my favorite cutting board ever! Solid, no knife cuts after a week of use, and the green color is lovely. No sliding issues on the counter so far. Very happy with this eco-friendly option!
3. Best on a Budget
What We Love
- Value for Money: The Royal Craft Wood Bamboo Cutting Board offers excellent quality at a low price. It features a deep juice groove and recessed handle for easy handling.
- Low Maintenance: While it requires some care, this board generally needs less oiling than most other bamboo and hardwood models.
What to Keep in Mind
- Not Dishwasher Safe: This board should be hand-washed and dried completely before storing. Both sides need to be evenly wet when cleaning.
- Limited Versatility: While it's great for cutting, it's not as versatile for tasks like chopping, honing, and mincing.
Why It Might Be Right for You
If you're on a budget but still want a quality cutting board, the Royal Craft Wood Bamboo Cutting Board could be your perfect match.
It's a board that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank. Yes, it requires a bit of care, but the low maintenance and cost-effectiveness make it a worthy addition to your kitchen.
And while it's not the most versatile, it does its primary job - cutting - exceptionally well. This board is a testament to the fact that quality doesn't always have to come at a high price.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
- These boards are excellent - nice and sturdy. A pro tip: hydrate the boards with oil before using them, even if the packaging claims they're "ready to use" to ensure optimal performance.
4. Best for Easy Cleaning
What We Love
- Perfect Size: Ideal for daily meal preparation, made from sustainable high-density pine leaves.
- Reversible Design: Choose between two sides depending on the ingredients, with a deep groove design to prevent spills.
- Hygienic: Easy to wash in a dishwasher and has natural antibacterial properties.
What to Keep in Mind
- Can Warp: While dishwasher safe, it's not recommended due to the possibility of warping. Also, colors may fade if not cared for properly.
Why It Might Be Right for You
The Elihome Medium Wood Fiber Cutting Board is a practical choice for those who value sustainability and hygiene in their kitchen tools. Its perfect size and reversible design make meal preparation a breeze, while its natural antibacterial properties and dishwasher compatibility ensure easy cleaning.
However, be mindful of potential warping if exposed to high heat in the dishwasher.
If you're someone who appreciates eco-friendly products and doesn't mind a bit of extra care, this cutting board could be a great addition to your kitchen.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
- These are my favorite cutting boards! I've purchased three from this company, and this one's size and non-slip corners are perfect. The groove around the edges to catch liquids is a fantastic feature.
5. Best for Durability
What We Love
- Eco-friendly: Made from Richlite, a composite product made by fusing hundreds of sheets of paper, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
- Dishwasher Safe: Unlike many wood boards, Epicurean cutting boards can be safely washed in a dishwasher.
What to Keep in Mind
- Easily Damaged: While more knife-friendly than hard surfaces like glass and metal, it doesn't have the natural wood grain fiber that's optimal for knife strokes.
- Lacks Aesthetic Appeal: The uniform surface of the paper composite doesn't offer the unique wood grain or color of wooden boards.
Why It Might Be Right for You
The Epicurean Composite Cutting Board is a solid choice for those who prioritize environmental sustainability and convenience in their kitchen tools. Its eco-friendly construction and dishwasher compatibility make it a practical addition to any kitchen.
However, if you're seeking a board with a unique aesthetic appeal or the softness of natural wood, you might want to consider other options.
This board is about functionality and eco-consciousness, making it a great fit for the modern, environmentally aware home.
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. You can find it on Amazon.com.
Customer Review (source: Amazon)
- This is a very solid product! We initially tried one and had such a positive experience that we got another. They might look artificial, but they've held up well to months of steady use and are still going strong. The best part is they're dishwasher-safe
Product Comparison: Overview
1. Sonder Los Angeles: Maple Cutting Board
- Specifications: 17"L x 13"W x 1.5"Th, Maple, 8 Pounds
- Main Benefit: Durable and long-lasting due to its closed-grain structure.
- Main Drawback: Higher price point compared to bamboo and plastic models.
2. Architec: EcoSmart PolyFlax Cutting Board
- Specifications: 16"L x 12"W x 0.38"Th, Plastic, 0.01 Ounces
- Main Benefit: Eco-friendly, made from recycled food-grade plastic and flax husk.
- Main Drawback: No self-healing properties, requiring replacement over time.
3. Royal Craft Wood: Bamboo Cutting Board
- Specifications: 18"L x 12"W x 0.6"Th, Bamboo, 3.2 Pounds
- Main Benefit: Excellent value for money with low maintenance.
- Main Drawback: Not dishwasher safe, can warp if exposed to high heat.
4. Elihome: Medium Wood Fiber Cutting Board
- Specifications: 13"L x 10"W x 0.25"Th, Wood Fiber, 1.4 Pounds
- Main Benefit: Eco-friendly and hygienic, easy to wash in a dishwasher.
- Main Drawback: Can warp if exposed to high heat in the dishwasher.
5. Epicurean: Composite Cutting Board
- Specifications: 11.5"L x 9"W x 0.25"Th, Composite, 0.47 Kilograms
- Main Benefit: Eco-friendly and dishwasher safe.
- Main Drawback: Easily damaged and lacks the aesthetic appeal of wooden boards.
How We Have Selected The Best Options
Our selection process for the best cutting boards is comprehensive and meticulous. We understand the pivotal role a cutting board plays in a kitchen, and we've dedicated significant time to researching and testing various products.
Our team of experts has examined a wide array of cutting boards, from bamboo to plastic, and even unique materials like maple and butcher block. We've scrutinized factors such as size, weight, and the hardness of the material, which can impact the lifespan of your knives. We've also evaluated the ease of cleaning and whether the board is dishwasher safe, as hygiene is a critical aspect of any kitchen tool.
Each cutting board has been tested in real-world kitchen scenarios. We've assessed the stability of the board during use, the presence of grooves that can catch food particles and juices, and the overall durability of the board over time.
We've also considered the price point of each board, understanding that a good cutting board needs to be not just high-quality but also cost-effective. Our top picks are the ones that have passed our stringent tests and offer the best balance of quality, functionality, and price.
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
Plastic cutting boards are a popular choice for cutting raw meat due to their nonporous nature, making them less likely to harbor bacteria. They are also more affordable, lighter, and thinner than wood boards. However, they are less durable, can easily become scratched or stained, and may create hiding spots for bacteria if not washed thoroughly. Additionally, they are not biodegradable like wood cutting boards.
Wood
Wooden cutting boards are eco-friendly and naturally contain antibacterial agents that prevent bacterial growth. They also add beauty to the dining table and are popular for serving foods like cheese and meat on charcuterie boards. For hygiene reasons, it's best to use separate boards for food production and cutting raw meat.
Glass
Glass cutting boards are an attractive and functional option. They are durable, inexpensive, and easy to clean since they don't retain bacteria. They're dishwasher safe and can also protect countertops from hot pots. However, be cautious when cutting meat on glass boards as they may damage 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
Having deep grooves at the edges of the cutting board is essential for cutting raw meat. These grooves catch excess juices and liquids, keeping the counter clean and reducing mess in the center. While a flat cutting board is great for vegetables, a grooved board helps contain the juices, making it ideal for cutting juicy materials like meat and tomatoes.
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
Wooden cutting boards are easy to wash and maintain due to their unique structure, requiring minimal effort. Occasional oil application can help maintain their quality.
Bamboo boards, like hardwood, are not suitable for dishwashers. They need regular oiling to stay in good condition.
Plastic boards are dishwasher-safe, but frequent dishwasher use may cause warping. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent bacterial growth in the board's grooves.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Are plastic cutting boards good for cutting raw meat?
Yes, plastic cutting boards can be used for cutting raw meat, but it's crucial to dedicate a board solely for this purpose and maintain proper hygiene by cleaning and sanitizing it regularly. Replace the board if it develops deep grooves or shows signs of wear.
Is a glass cutting board safe to use?
Glass cutting boards can be safe to use for certain tasks, but they have some drawbacks when it comes to cutting and chopping. While glass cutting boards are durable, easy to clean, and dishwasher-safe, they are not recommended for cutting tasks that involve heavy chopping or cutting with sharp knives. Glass cutting boards can cause excessive wear on knife blades and can potentially damage the edge, making it less safe for cutting.
For safe cutting and to protect your knives, it's best to use a plastic cutting board or a wooden cutting board. Plastic and wooden cutting boards are gentler on knife edges, ensuring the longevity and sharpness of your knives.
Is a glass cutting board safe to use?
Glass cutting boards can be safe to use for certain tasks, but they have some drawbacks when it comes to cutting and chopping. While glass cutting boards are durable, easy to clean, and dishwasher-safe, they are not recommended for cutting tasks that involve heavy chopping or cutting with sharp knives. Glass cutting boards can cause excessive wear on knife blades and can potentially damage the edge, making it less safe for cutting.
For safe cutting and to protect your knives, it's best to use a plastic cutting board or a wooden cutting board. Plastic and wooden cutting boards are gentler on knife edges, ensuring the longevity and sharpness of your knives.
Conclusion
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.
Items Reviewed
- Best Overall: Sonder Los Angeles: Maple Cutting Board
- Best for Eco-Conscious Users: Architect: Recycled Plastic and Flax Husk Cutting Board
- Best on a Budget: Royal Craft: Bamboo Cutting Board
- Best for Easy Cleaning: Elihome, Wood Fiber Cutting Board
- Best for Durability: Epicurean: Composite Cutting Board
Futher Reading
- Uncover the unique advantages of bamboo cutting boards, from sustainability to hygiene, in CuttingBoard.com's article 'Top Five Benefits of a Bamboo Cutting Board'."
- Kitchen Hygiene: Cleaning and Caring for Your Cutting Boards - Boost your kitchen cleanliness with this guide on maintaining and cleaning your cutting boards.
- Cutting Boards: Importance of Separate Ones for Raw Meat - Discover the science-backed reasons for using distinct cutting boards for raw meat in this informative piece.
- Understanding Color-Coded Cutting Boards: The Role of Red - Unravel the significance of color-coded cutting boards, specifically the role of the red board, in this detailed article.
Please note that the reviews on this page have been edited for readability and clarity while maintaining the essence of the original content.
