The Wooden Spoon Cleaning Mistake That Can Make You Sick - Tasting Table

"The pros of using wooden spoons in the kitchen are plentiful. They're durable, comfortable to hold, non-conducive - so safe to use over high heats - and won't scratch or damage your cookware or bakeware. It's no wonder wooden spoons are the ultimate utensil for time-consuming cooking tasks. They've even got an aesthetic value in their timeless country chic. However, there's a crucial part of owning and using wooden spoons, which is properly caring for them."

"You might think the possibility for foodborne illness factors in here because of wood's porosity, but that can actually be a plus. The wood absorbs water and bacteria, essentially taking away the moist conditions from the spoon's surface that microorganisms need to continue growing. However, the correct drying process is necessary for this process to completely play out. If you wash a wooden spoon and just give it a quick pat before placing it back into an enclosed space,"

Wooden spoons are durable, comfortable to hold, heat-safe, and do not scratch cookware, offering both function and aesthetic appeal. Wood's porosity allows absorption of water and bacteria, reducing surface moisture that microbes need to grow, but only if drying completes. Quick patting and storage in enclosed spaces traps surface moisture and permits bacterial growth. Wooden spoons must air-dry for about 24 hours with ample airflow, ideally placed handle down and spoon up in a dish rack utensil compartment. Many woods contain antimicrobial tannins that further inhibit bacteria. Thorough cleaning followed by proper drying preserves safety and longevity.

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