Views: 103 Author: Anthony Publish Time: 2024-02-04 Origin: Kitchen Plus
There are many types of cutting boards available in the market, such as wood, bamboo, glass, and plastic. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences and needs. But among them, plastic cutting boards are one of the most popular and widely used options. But is plastic good for cutting boards? In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of plastic cutting boards and help you decide if plastic material is good for cutting boards.
Benefits of Plastic Cutting Boards
Plastic cutting boards have many benefits that make them appealing to many home cooks and professional chefs. Some of the benefits are:
Non-slip: plastic cutting boards are usually textured or have rubber feet to prevent them from sliding on the counter. This can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries while cutting your food.
Scratch-resistant: plastic cutting boards are durable and can withstand frequent use and washing. They do not crack, warp, or splinter easily, unlike wood or bamboo cutting boards.
Knife-friendly: plastic cutting boards are soft enough to protect the edge of your knives and prevent them from dulling. They also do not chip or shatter your knives, unlike glass cutting boards.
Easy to clean: plastic cutting boards are dishwasher-safe and can be sanitized with hot water and soap. They are also resistant to moisture and do not absorb liquids, unlike wood or bamboo cutting boards.
Color-coded: plastic cutting boards come in different colors to help you avoid cross-contamination of food. You can use different cutting boards for different types of food, such as red for raw meat, green for vegetables, and yellow for poultry.
Drawbacks of Plastic Cutting Boards
Plastic cutting boards also have some drawbacks that you should be aware of before buying them. Some of the drawbacks are:
Plastic waste: plastic cutting boards are not biodegradable and can contribute to environmental pollution. They are made from petroleum-based materials that are not renewable and can take hundreds of years to decompose. They can also release microplastics into the water and soil, which can harm wildlife and human health.
Bacteria growth: plastic cutting boards can harbor bacteria in the grooves and scratches that are created by the knives. These bacteria can transfer to your food and cause foodborne illnesses. Even if you wash and sanitize your plastic cutting board, some bacteria may still remain in the crevices and multiply over time.
Odor and stain retention: plastic cutting boards can absorb the smell and color of the food that is cut on them. This can make your cutting board look and smell unpleasant and affect the flavor of your food. Some foods that can stain and odorize your plastic cutting board are garlic, onion, fish, and turmeric.
Chemical leaching: plastic cutting boards may contain harmful substances such as BPA, phthalates, or dyes that can leach into your food. These substances can disrupt your hormonal balance, affect your reproductive system, and increase your risk of cancer. You should avoid plastic cutting boards that are not certified as food-safe or BPA-free.
So, is plastic good for cutting boards? The answer is: it depends. Plastic cutting boards have some advantages that make them convenient, practical, and versatile. However, they also have some disadvantages that make them potentially harmful, unsanitary, and unsustainable. Therefore, you should weigh the pros and cons of plastic cutting boards carefully and choose the best cutting board for your needs.