Employing either plastic or wooden chopping boards at home has its advantages, suggesting that utilizing both might be the ideal choice.
In the kitchen, the choice between plastic and wooden chopping boards can be a matter of personal preference, practicality, and environmental concerns. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each, as well as a compromise approach that balances both options.
The Joseph Joseph Folio Set, a color-coded plastic chopping board set, is designed to prevent cross-contamination. These boards are cleverly designed so that you can always ensure that your meat is cut on the same board, and the same goes for fish and veggies. Plastic chopping boards, such as the Our Place Daily Board made from 100% recycled plastic and BPA-free, are lightweight, dishwasher-safe, and often more budget-friendly. They can also be safely cleaned in a dishwasher for thorough disinfection, according to Shiza Shahid of Our Place. However, a study from the Natural Library of Medicine suggests that using a standard plastic chopping board can release microplastics into food.
On the other hand, wooden chopping boards are found to be easy to cut on, but are heavy when moved to the sink for washing and drying, and cannot be put in the dishwasher. Despite this, they offer antimicrobial properties, a gentle treatment of knives, and durability, as advocated by Shiza Shahid, co-founder of non-toxic cookware brand Our Place. Wooden chopping boards, such as the Berden Acacia Carving Board, are double-sided, with one side used for chopping various foods and the other side featuring deep juice grooves for carving meats. They cannot release microplastics into your food, as confirmed by the same study.
Wooden chopping boards generally have a lower environmental impact, especially when made from durable materials such as bamboo. They are also more eco-friendly than plastic ones because wood is a renewable, biodegradable material with lower emissions during production and disposal, whereas plastic is derived from fossil fuels, non-biodegradable, and causes more pollution.
A good compromise is a plastic and a wooden chopping board in your kitchen. Richard Joseph, CEO of Joseph Joseph, believes that wooden chopping boards add aesthetic appeal to the kitchen and are ideal for serving. Meanwhile, Richard Joseph recommends a plastic chopping board for those who struggle with maintenance. Opt for a smaller plastic board for cutting meats and fish, and a larger, thicker wooden board for general chopping.
In conclusion, the choice between plastic and wooden chopping boards depends on your needs, preferences, and environmental concerns. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each, you can make an informed decision that suits your kitchen and cooking style.
