Wood vs. Antibacterial Cutting Boards: Which to Choose?
By Tramontina | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: Comparisons
Not sure whether to pick a wood cutting board or an antibacterial model? This guide compares Tramontina cherry wood, teak, and antibacterial boards to help you decide.
Quick answer
Choose a solid wood board for natural beauty and durability, or an antibacterial board for built-in protection against bacteria. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize aesthetics and knife-friendliness or extra hygiene for raw meat prep.
Why wood cutting boards are a classic choice
Wood cutting boards have been a kitchen staple for generations. They are naturally gentle on knife edges, which means less frequent sharpening. The porous grain of wood also has a self-healing property: minor cuts tend to close up slightly, reducing visible wear over time.
Tramontina offers solid Brazilian cherry wood and teak options. Cherry wood is prized for its rich color and warmth, while teak is naturally water-resistant and dense, making it a great choice for heavy daily use. Both require occasional oiling to maintain their appearance and prevent drying.
When antibacterial protection matters
If you regularly prepare raw poultry, meat, or fish, an antibacterial board adds an extra layer of confidence. The Tramontina Antibacterial Savia Cherry Wood Chopping Board incorporates Microban antibacterial protection, which is built into the board during manufacturing. This protection inhibits the growth of bacteria on the surface, even after normal cleaning.
The trade-off is that the antibacterial agent is embedded in the material, not a coating, so it won't wear off. However, you still need to wash the board thoroughly after each use. No board is a substitute for proper kitchen hygiene.
Size, handle, and serving versatility
Not all cutting boards are the same size or shape. Tramontina's Cutting and Serving Board with Handle comes in two sizes (40x27 cm and 40x30 cm) and is made of teak wood with a natural oil finish. The handle makes it easy to carry from counter to table, so it doubles as a serving board for cheese, bread, or appetizers.
If you need a larger surface for chopping multiple ingredients at once, the larger 40x30 cm board gives you extra room. For smaller kitchens or quick tasks, the 40x27 cm board is more compact and easier to store.
How to choose: decision rules
- Do you cut raw meat or poultry daily?: If yes, choose a board with antibacterial protection, such as the Tramontina Antibacterial Savia Cherry Wood Chopping Board. If you mostly chop vegetables, fruits, or cooked foods, a standard wood board works well.
- Do you want a board that also works as a serving piece?: Pick a board with a handle, like the Tramontina Cutting and Serving Board with Handle (either size). The handle makes it easy to transfer food to the table, and the teak wood looks attractive for cheese or charcuterie. Check the dimensions: the 40x30 cm board offers more surface area for serving larger platters.
Tramontina Cutting and Serving Board - How much maintenance are you willing to do?: All wood boards need periodic oiling to prevent drying and cracking. Antibacterial boards do not reduce this need. If you prefer minimal upkeep, consider a non-wood alternative. If you enjoy caring for natural materials, wood is rewarding. Plan to apply food-safe mineral oil or board conditioner every 4-6 weeks, or when the wood looks dry.
Featured products at a glance
- Tramontina Antibacterial Savia Cherry Wood Chopping Board: Made of solid Brazilian cherry wood with Microban antibacterial protection that inhibits bacterial growth. You get the warmth and beauty of cherry wood plus built-in antimicrobial defense, ideal for households that handle raw proteins and want extra peace of mind.
Tramontina Antibacterial Savia Cherry Wood Chopping Board - Tramontina Cutting and Serving Board with Handle (L40xW27xH1.8cm): Teak wood board with natural oil finish, dimensions 40x27x1.8 cm, includes a handle for easy carrying. Teak's natural water resistance and the integrated handle make this board a practical choice for both chopping and serving, especially in smaller kitchens.
Which board fits your kitchen?
Best for
- Home cooks who frequently prepare raw meat and want extra bacterial protection – choose the antibacterial cherry wood board.
- Those who want a dual-purpose board for chopping and serving – choose a teak board with handle.
Not for
- People who want a dishwasher-safe board – wood boards should be hand-washed only.
- Budget buyers looking for the lowest upfront cost – a basic plastic board is cheaper, though less durable and less attractive.
