Expert: Eileen Cronk - 10/7/2006

Question
Hi. I have been working on a very old butcher block that has always been used for food prep. I have used several products to romove the stains and scratches, including sanding. I cannot seem to completely get rid of either. My question is can you stain the wood, then use the mineral oil and it be safe for food prep?

Answer
Hi Marti
Nice to hear from you.
I would not use stain on a food grade surface as you would have to use oil based stain due to the fact the block will have absorbed grease and water based stain would not take. But you could certainly try to reduce the stains with normal house hold bleach applied full strength then left for a time then a good wash and then oil when dry.
As for the scratches, the stain would only bring them out more not disguise them.
Sounds like a great project.
Regards
Eileen