How to wash and disinfect food cutting boards so they don't keep bacteria
The cutting board in Spain is an essential utensil when cooking. Provides a firm and safe surface for slicing many foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish...
The problem is that if the cutting board is not cleaned properly, it becomes a real source of bacteria that are harmful to health. Here we tell you all the tricks to clean and disinfect cutting boards safely. Take note!
How to sanitize the cutting board
There are several natural methods to clean and disinfect your cutting boards. They are all very efficient, and the best thing is that you will not need to buy any products.
1. Lemon
Fresh lemon has antimicrobial and antifungal substances. These prevent the formation of fungi and bacteria on the surface of the cutting board. It also acts as a natural deodorant. It is ideal for neutralizing strong odors that remain when handling ingredients such as garlic and onion.
To use it for cleaning, you need to cut a slice of lemon and rub it on the surface of the board for a couple of minutes. Then let it air dry without rinsing. Another option is to sprinkle it with lemon juice, and let it absorb for 15 minutes. Then, rinse with water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid.
2. White vinegar
White vinegar is considered one of the most effective ecological disinfectant products that we can find. Its application on various surfaces can alter the bacterial environment. In addition, it decreases its activity and prevents its contamination.
The vinegar does not affect the wood fibers on the surface of the board. This is essential to prevent it from deteriorating soon. Plus, its acidic compounds can fight common bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus.
To start using it, you must clean the surface of the board, spraying it with white vinegar and letting it act for 10 minutes. After this time, rinse it as usual and let it dry.
3. Coarse salt
Coarse salt is a product with multiple applications beyond its use as a condiment in the kitchen. For this reason, it should always be on hand. It has bactericidal and antifungal compounds that facilitate the cleaning and disinfection of some surfaces. For example, for the cutting board. The steps to use it are as follows:
- After removing food residue from your cutting board, sprinkle it liberally with salt. Then rub it with the help of a sponge.
- Then, let it act for 20 minutes and remove the excess with a soft cloth.
- Finally, for a more complete disinfection, combine the salt with a little lemon juice. Do the same procedure.
4. Baking soda
This organic ingredient prevents contamination by bacteria. In addition, it also removes the remains of food that tend to stain the board. Its application neutralizes strong odors and prevents the growth of mold. Therefore, it is an excellent solution to thoroughly clean the cutting board.
To start using it you will need to rub a generous amount of baking soda on the surface of the board. Then let it act for 30 minutes. After this time, sprinkle a little lemon juice on it and clean it with a soft cloth. You can also combine equal parts of baking soda and salt and repeat the same procedure. Finally, finish cleaning with a little water and liquid soap.
5. Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen peroxide is a very effective antimicrobial ingredient. It can be used in many ways at home.
This product eliminates a large number of bacteria, fungi and other types of microorganisms. For this reason, it is an excellent alternative for cleaning kitchen tables.
To use it you must combine equal parts of hydrogen peroxide with white vinegar and spray it on all parts of the table. Then, let it act for 20 minutes and rinse with plenty of water.
6. Tea tree essential oil
Tea tree essential oil is a health and beauty remedy. However, it has also become an ecological cleaning product that cannot be missing in homes. Antibacterial and antifungal properties are attributed to it that easily alter the environment of microorganisms. Therefore, it is a very effective solution.
To use it, you must start by adding a few drops of tea tree essential oil in a bowl of warm water and submerging the table for 30 minutes. After this time, rinse it with liquid soap and water.
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