The Truth About Wood and Hygiene in the Kitchen

September 5, 2023

Die Wahrheit über Holz und Hygiene in der Küche

Recently, we have repeatedly heard concerns and opinions that call into question the hygiene of wooden utensils. It is time to clear up some misconceptions and highlight the advantages of wood in the kitchen.

In this article, we take a look at hygiene in the kitchen and the use of wooden utensils. Despite recent concerns, wood has a long tradition in the kitchen. We would like to highlight the advantages of wood, because it definitely has its place in a clean and hygienic kitchen.

The natural antibacterial effect of wood

Wood has often had a bad reputation in the past when it comes to hygiene. The misconception that wood is an ideal home for bacteria and germs due to its porous surface persists. However, recent scientific findings have clearly refuted this prejudice.

The key to the hygienic properties of wood lies in its unique cellular structure. This structure offers a huge internal surface area that can absorb water extremely efficiently.

This so-called hygroscopic effect is present in all types of wood and ensures that bacteria find poorer living conditions due to moisture loss, which ultimately leads to their death.¹

Furthermore, recent studies show that wood, depending on the type of wood, contains natural antibacterial agents. For example, walnut and oak contain a high proportion of tannins and polyphenols, which have antibacterial properties.²

Olive wood contains oleuropein, a natural antibacterial substance that ensures hygienic surfaces. Interestingly, olive oil also contains oleuropein in addition to other health-promoting properties, and thus has positive antibacterial characteristics.

Wood vs. Plastic: A hygiene comparison

It may come as a surprise, but bacteria can survive longer on plastic surfaces, especially on polyethylene, than on wood. On plastics, a significant reduction in the number of germs only occurs after twelve to 24 hours.

If there is repeated germ entry, this can even lead to an accumulation of viable bacteria. Even thorough cleaning and disinfection measures only provide temporary relief.

A study by the German Institute for Food Technology compared the germ load on commercially available wooden pallets with plastic pallets.

The result is surprising: On wooden pallets, the average germ load was overall about 15% lower than on plastic pallets.³

With specially treated wooden hygiene pallets made of pine heartwood, an even clearer reduction in microbial load could be observed.

The advantages of olive wood

Robust and durable

Olive wood kitchen utensils are known for their robustness. They can withstand blows and impacts without breaking or splintering. This makes them reliable tools that can last for years. Unlike plastic, which can get scratched and worn over time, olive wood develops an attractive patina over time.

Easy to clean

Another plus point of olive wood is its easy cleaning. Unlike many plastic surfaces, which can easily discolor or develop stains, olive wood can be kept clean relatively easily. A quick wipe with warm water and mild dish soap is often enough. Olive wood also absorbs odors less than plastic, which helps keep the kitchen fresher.

Sustainability

Olive wood is a renewable raw material that can be obtained in an environmentally friendly way with proper cultivation and harvesting. In contrast, the production of plastics generates large amounts of greenhouse gases and leaves a significant ecological legacy. So, if you choose olive wood kitchen utensils, you are supporting a sustainable and environmentally conscious kitchen practice.

Conclusion

The prejudices against wood in the kitchen have proven to be unfounded. On the contrary, wood offers natural antibacterial properties and is environmentally friendly, robust, and durable. It is time to appreciate wood in the kitchen again and view it as a hygienic and sustainable option. Welcome to a new era of cooking!