What Oil Finish Is Put on a Butcher's Block Cutting Board?

Seasoning

• Butcher blocks are seasoned with an oil coating to prevent staining and the absorption of odors and bacteria. Treating the surface of the butcher block with the right oils will aid in stopping germs and mold growth in the wood. When applied regularly, the oils fill the wood pores so food particles and liquids are repelled from the butcher block's surface.

Mineral Oil

• Mineral oil is the most commonly used oil on butcher blocks. It has a long shelf life and does not turn rancid as other types of oils do. Most blocks sold as finished blocks will have some type of mineral oil--based finish applied. Mineral oil may be confused with mineral spirits, but these are not the same. Mineral spirits are used as paint thinner and should not be used on your butcher block. Food-grade mineral oil is labeled as USP-grade or food grade and can be found in most hardware stores. Beeswax provides a water-resistant seal for wood surfaces and is often added to mineral oil to provide butcher blocks with a more durable finish. Add 1/2 tsp. of shaved beeswax to a cup of mineral oil and warm it in the microwave. Apply to the surface of the butcher block as you would straight mineral oil. The oil is absorbed into the wood, while the beeswax sits on top and fills in surface pores and gaps to prevent moisture and bacteria from penetrating the surface of the wood.

Application

• Apply mineral oil to butcher blocks after warming it, wiping the oil with a soft cloth so it is forced into the wood grain. Leave the block for about four hours so the oil is absorbed, and then wipe away any oil still remaining on the surface. New butcher blocks will require at least four coats of oil to be properly seasoned. After the initial seasoning, apply oil monthly to keep the wood protected.

Oils to Avoid

• Vegetable oils or any oils that are animal fat--based should not be used to treat butcher blocks. These oils will spoil, which not only presents health issues but also leaves a foul odor in your butcher block. Walnut and almond oil don't turn rancid as rapidly as other natural oils, but they will spoil eventually. These oils are also not safe for anyone with a nut allergy. Boiled linseed is also used to coat butcher blocks, but it also runs the risk of turning rancid.