The Ultimate Food-Safe Wood Finish

When it comes to choosing the right finish for timber surfaces, especially those that come into contact with food, safety and durability are paramount. Whether you're a professional chef, a home cook, or simply someone who appreciates the timeless beauty of timber, finding a coating that can deliver both protection and peace of mind is essential.

What Defines Non-toxic and Food-Safe?

The term "non-toxic" means the absence of ingredients that are known to cause toxic responses in humans - specifically, responses such as hormone disruption, poisoning, or cancer. On the flip side, "food-safe" indicates that a material is not only free from harmful substances but also fit for its intended use without creating a food-safety hazard.

Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil distinguishes itself by being both non-toxic and food-safe. This makes it a perfect choice for finishing kitchen benchtops, wooden chopping boards and utensils, and children's toys - essentially, any surface that either comes into direct contact with food or is frequented by kids and pets.

Key Benefits of Evolution Hardwax Oil

• Non-Toxic: Completely safe for humans, animals, and plants, it does not contain toxic ingredients that can migrate off the timber and onto the food.
• Independently Certified Food-Safe: Deemed fit for surfaces that interact directly with food items, ensuring no contamination. BS EN 1186-3:2002 Overall migration in Aqueous stimulant by total immersion
• Water-Resistant: Makes it suitable for areas prone to moisture, as well as on wooden items such as chopping boards and bowls that have repeated use and exposure to water. Complies with regulation DIN 68861-1B: Resistance to spills of water, wine, beer, coffee, tea, fizzy drinks etc. 
• Micro-Porous: Allows the wood to breathe, penetrating deep with the timber without forming a restrictive outer film that could lead to cracking.
• High Coverage Rates: With an impressive coverage of 20-30m2 per litre, it's an economical option for large projects.

Advantages Over Traditional Finishes

In comparison to finishes that build up a film on the wood's surface, such as shellac, polyurethane, and lacquer, Evolution Hardwax Oil stands out for several reasons. Film finishes can flake and peel over time, especially with repeated use and exposure to water. This not only compromises the timber's appearance but also its safety, as moisture intrusion can foster bacterial growth.

When it comes to chopping boards, the additional damage from the knife on the board as well as water exposure from washing leads to the film finish failing, requiring frequent sanding and reapplication of the finish.

In contrast, Whittle Waxes absorbs into the timber, providing protection from within. This method of finish does wear away with use and washing but can be easily reapplied without the need for sanding down the previous coat, conveniently maintaining the wood's protection and aesthetic. (The timber grain may sometimes raise, which can be solved by a light sanding.)

Besides going rancid, using vegetable oils or animal fats, although natural, can degrade and support bacterial growth. Conversely, Evolution Hardwax Oil, with its non-toxic, food-safe credentials, ensures that surfaces remain safe and hygienic without the risk of contaminating food with hazardous substances.

Choosing the right timber finish is a critical decision that impacts not just the beauty and longevity of the wood but also the health and safety of its users. Choose Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil for a beautiful and safe finish every time. Trust us, you won't be disappointed! Happy finishing!

What’s the Best Oil for Chopping Boards?

Find out more here.

Why Choose Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil?

Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil stands out as the ultimate food-safe wood finish.

Independently Certified Food-Safe Formula

Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil is made with natural, non-toxic ingredients that are safe for use on food-contact surfaces. This means you can use it on cutting boards, utensils, and even countertops without worrying about any harmful chemicals leaching into your food. BS EN 1186-3:2002 Overall migration in Aqueous stimulant by total immersion

Durable Protection

Not only is Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil safe for use around food, but it also provides excellent protection against water, stains, and wear and tear, as its hardwax oil formula penetrates deep into the wood, forming a strong and durable barrier. Complies with regulation DIN 68861-1B: Resistance to spills of water, wine, beer, coffee, tea, fizzy drinks etc. 

Easy to Apply

Applying Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil is a breeze. With no need for sanding between coats and a fast drying time, you can finish your project in no time. And because it is a one-step product, you don't have to worry about applying multiple coats or using additional products. Simply apply the hardwax oil and let it cure for 24 hours.

Versatile

Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil can be used on a variety of wood surfaces, including hardwood floors, furniture, toys and even beehives! Its versatility makes it a go-to product for any timber finishing project.

Enhances Natural Beauty

Unlike some finishes that can change the colour or appearance of wood, Whittle Waxes Evolution Hardwax Oil enhances and highlights the natural beauty of the timber, bringing out the grain and character for a stunning finish.

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