Offering Tung Oil as an Upgrade: A Natural Alternative for Your Cutting Board
For a long time, I’ve finished my cutting boards with mineral oil. It’s what most woodworkers use—it’s food-safe, easy to apply, and does a solid job protecting the wood. I’ve been happy with it, and it’s what I continue to use as my standard finish. But over time, I started wondering if there might be a more natural option for those who are looking for something a little different. That’s when I started experimenting with tung oil, and now I’m offering it as an upgrade for my cutting boards.
Why Offer Tung Oil?
I’m not saying mineral oil is a bad choice—it’s worked well for me, and it’s an affordable option that keeps the wood protected and looking good. But tung oil caught my attention because it’s a natural, plant-based alternative that goes deeper into the wood and hardens as it cures. It’s been used for centuries to protect and beautify wood, and the more I learned about it, the more I thought it could be a great option for some of my customers who want a more natural, less processed finish.
That’s why I decided to offer tung oil as an upgrade, rather than making a full switch. It gives you the choice to stick with what works or try something different, depending on what feels right for you.
What Makes Tung Oil Different?
Tung oil is derived from the seeds of the tung tree and has been used as a wood finish for a long time. Unlike mineral oil, which sits on the surface and needs regular reapplication, tung oil penetrates deeper into the wood and cures to form a stronger, more durable finish. This can offer better long-term protection for your cutting board, though it also takes a bit more time to apply and cure properly.
One of the reasons I’m offering tung oil as an upgrade is that it’s less processed than mineral oil. It’s simply pressed from the seeds and filtered, with no refining or chemicals involved. This makes it a more natural choice for those who are mindful of what comes into contact with their food. However, I know that everyone has their own preferences, and mineral oil is still a perfectly good option for many.
A Natural Finish with More Durability
One of the things that drew me to tung oil was its ability to harden as it cures. This creates a more durable, water-resistant finish that lasts longer than mineral oil. Over time, tung oil builds up on the surface, offering a protective layer that stands up to moisture and daily use.
But, it’s not just about durability. Tung oil also has a way of bringing out the natural beauty of the wood in a really unique way. It enhances the grain patterns and gives the wood a rich, warm glow without feeling too glossy or artificial. Whether you choose walnut, oak, cherry, or another hardwood, tung oil deepens the color and makes the natural character of the wood stand out even more.
Health Considerations: Yours and Mine
One of the reasons I’ve decided to offer tung oil as an option is that it feels like a healthier alternative. As someone who spends a lot of time working with finishes, I think about what I’m exposed to and what I’m passing along to my customers. Tung oil, once it’s cured, creates a non-toxic, food-safe surface that doesn’t have any synthetic chemicals or additives. For those of you who are looking for the most natural option out there, this feels like a good choice.
That said, I’m not claiming that tung oil is the perfect solution for everyone. It’s a bit more of an investment—both in terms of time and cost. But for those who want something that’s natural, more durable, and still food-safe, it’s worth considering.
What’s Right for You?
At the end of the day, I’m not here to say that tung oil is better than mineral oil or that everyone should make the switch. Mineral oil works, it’s food-safe, and it’s what I use for my standard finish. But tung oil offers something a little different—a deeper, more natural finish that hardens over time and brings out the natural beauty of the wood in a unique way.
I’m offering tung oil as an upgrade for those who want that extra level of durability and a more natural finish. I’m still learning as I go, and this feels like a step in the right direction. But as always, I’ll keep paying attention to how well it holds up and continue refining the way I approach my work. If tung oil sounds like the right choice for you, I’m happy to offer it as an option. And if you’re happy with mineral oil, that’s perfectly fine too. I’m just glad to have a choice that fits whatever your needs might be.
