FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
IS IT FOOD SAFE
The Short answer is "yes" with an asterisk*. The general belief is that all commercial finishes are safe as long as they have dried properly. The FDA does not certify wood finishes as "food safe". They do regulate what is in wood finishes. All wood finishes have to be free from any harmful chemicals, such as lead. The two main types of finishes are oils and films. Oils, such as tung or mineral, penetrate the wood and usually have to be reapplied periodically. Film finishes, such as polyurethane, shellac and varnish, build up a film on the surface of the wood. They are usually more durable. They can be scratched but such small amounts shouldn't be harmful.
The other concern is what the foods will do to the finish. Certain foods can stain or even dissolve the finishes.
HOW DO I CLEAN A BOWL?
None of my bowls or platters are dishwasher safe, so please don't do that or immerse them in water. The finish I use most often is a hand applied wipe-on polyurethane. This can be cleaned with a damp cloth and small amount of mild soap. All wood vessels should be dried immediately. Never submerse wood items in water.