Bamboo vs. Plastic Cutting Board: Which Is Safer?

Quick Answer

Bamboo cutting boards are generally safer than plastic because their natural antibacterial properties and hardness reduce bacterial growth and knife marks that can harbor germs.

Why Bamboo Wins on Safety

Bamboo cutting boards absorb very little moisture, which limits the environment bacteria need to thrive. They also have natural antibacterial properties that plastic lacks. Additionally, bamboo is harder than most cutting board materials, so it resists deep knife grooves where bacteria can hide and multiply. Plastic boards, especially after heavy use, develop scores that are difficult to clean thoroughly.

The Trade-Off: Knife Wear

The hardness that makes bamboo safer for hygiene can dull knives faster than a softer plastic board. If you prioritize keeping your knife edges razor-sharp, you might prefer plastic. However, for overall food safety and longevity, bamboo's resistance to moisture and bacteria makes it the superior choice for most home cooks.

Verdicts on Common Claims

• Claim: Plastic boards are more sanitary because they can be bleached: While plastic can be sanitized with bleach, bamboo's natural antibacterial properties and low moisture absorption reduce bacteria growth without chemicals. Plus, bamboo's hardness means fewer knife grooves where bacteria can lodge, making it easier to keep clean in daily use. Bamboo is naturally sanitary without requiring bleach.
• Claim: Bamboo boards harbor more bacteria because they are porous: This is a myth. Bamboo is actually less porous than many woods and plastic. Its dense structure and natural antimicrobial compounds inhibit bacterial growth. The Breville bamboo board's hardness also minimizes knife scarring that could trap bacteria. Bamboo's density and natural properties make it less hospitable to bacteria.
• Claim: Plastic boards are safer because they are dishwasher safe: Dishwasher heat can warp thin plastic boards and degrade their surface over time, creating crevices for bacteria. Bamboo boards should be hand washed, but their natural resistance to moisture means they dry quickly and resist bacterial growth even without a dishwasher cycle. Hand washing bamboo is effective because it dries fast and resists bacteria.

Product Highlight

• Bamboo Cutting Board for the Compact Smart Oven®: Bamboo cutting boards absorb very little moisture and have natural antibacterial properties. They are also harder than most cutting boards and less prone to knife markings over time. This means the Breville Bamboo Cutting Board for the Compact Smart Oven resists bacterial growth and stays smoother longer, making it a safer option than plastic.

  

  Bamboo Cutting Board for the Compact Smart Oven®