Content Summary

Raw meat can be a little tricky to cut. You don't want to contaminate your kitchen counters with bacteria, and you also don't want to ruin your cutting board.

So, what is the best cutting board for raw meat? We did some research and found some best options that are anti-bacterial, dishwasher safe and won't warp or scratch like some other materials.

If you're looking for the best cutting boards for raw meat, we recommend checking out our top 5 picks below!

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The Cutting Board For Raw Meat: Buying Guide

What to look for in a raw meat cutting board? When you're shopping for the best cutting board for raw meat, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind.

1.Materials:

Cutting boards for meat must be made from a material that won't harbor bacteria.

  • Stainless steel, composite and polypropylene plastic boards are great options for this, as they're easy to clean, and minimize the growth of mold and bacteria on the surface.
  • Plastic boards are always dishwasher safe.
  • Wooden boards and bamboo boards on the other hand, can be more difficult to clean and are more likely to crack or warp over time.

2.Size and shape:

Cutting boards come in all shapes. You'll need to make sure that the board is the right size and shape for your needs. If you're working with a lot of raw meat, you'll want a larger board.

3.Other features:

Finally, you'll want to look for practical features like double sided (reversible), various colors, any features and differentiation rules that help prevent cross-contamination, meat juice grooves and handles that can make your cutting task easier.

Obviously, the best cutting boards have all the positive qualities. Here are our top picks for the best cutting board for raw meat preparation. Check out to pick yours!

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CATCHY FINDS' 5 PICKS IN THE SPOTLIGHT


JEMPSEY Double-Sided Stainless Steel Cutting Board

Best Choice For Its Durability

JEMPSEY Double-Sided Stainless Steel Cutting Board

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What Makes It Catchy

This professional cutting board is made of premium 304 stainless steel, making it safe and durable. The cube design on the stainless steel side increases friction and stability.

The smooth surface is easy to wipe away water stains and residual food, and the board won't crack or chip, like wood boards.

The board has two distinct sides: one for grinding raw foods such as meat, fish; the other is better suited for vegetables, fruit, cheese, pies, etc. It's as if you have a separate cutting board.

JEMPSEY Double-Sided Stainless Steel Cutting Board

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The TPE rubber backing helps hold the board in place and reduce noise, while the micro-textured surface provides extra grip.

To clean your cutting board, simply wash it with soap and water. Do not put it in the dishwasher, as this will shorten its lifespan. After washing, dry it thoroughly, and place or hang it in a dry area.

The oversized 17.7 x 12.2 inches cutting board features built-in knife sharpener and grinder make it a versatile gadget for any kitchen.

With its convenience and functionality, the Jempsey cutting board is perfect for all your food prep needs.

JEMPSEY Double-Sided Stainless Steel Cutting Board

Aichoof Set of 4 Plastic Cutting Board Set

Best Choice For Its Convenience Of Use

Aichoof Set of 4 Plastic Cutting Board Set

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What Makes It Catchy

Looking for a convenient and easy-to-use cutting board set? With the Aichoof Cutting Board Set, meal preparation will be a breeze.

This set of 4 of 9.4 x 13.15 inch plastic boards is perfect for those who are looking for a more sanitary and safe way to prepare their meals.

The different colors of the cutting board represent different uses, such as cutting raw meat, seafood, cooked food/ bread, vegetables/ fruits.

Aichoof Set of 4 Plastic Cutting Board Set

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The mesh design of the cutting board helps protect your cutting tools from damage. The juice groove on the board keeps the juice in a safe place so that the plastic board can be tidy.

These cutting boards are made of high-quality plastic, so they're easy to clean, and dishwasher safe. The hollow design at the sides and bottom helps keep the cutting board dry and clean.

The non-slip silicone handle and four non-slip feet at the corners keep the cutting board in place, ensures stability while in use    , so you can focus on the task at hand.

Aichoof Set of 4 Plastic Cutting Board Set

OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Cutting Board Set

Best Choice For Its Ease To Clean

OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Cutting Board Set

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What Makes It Catchy

Looking for an easy-to-clean cutting board set? The drip-catcher in these boards keeps even the juiciest foods contained and reduces messes.

Once you're finished cooking, quickly and easily pour away any leftover liquid from any corner. Made of polypropylene plastic, an Oxo board is both durable, and dishwasher safe - for those who would rather spend their time cooking than cleaning up afterward. Its non slip feet take care you have a stable and safe working area.

The set contains one 7.25-inch x 10.75-inch rectangular board for preparing raw meat and one 9-inch x 12.9-inch everyday carving board. The small Oxo  carving board is ideal for chopping vegetables or cutting cheese, while the larger cutting board is perfect for preparing raw foods.

OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Cutting Board Set

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But that's not all – the OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Cutting Board Set is also perfect for preventing cross-contamination.

The non-porous construction locks out liquids and odors for a fresh cutting surface every time, while the clever, double-sided design keeps flavors from mingling as you work.

So whether you're chopping meats or slicing produce, with this OXO board set you can do so with peace of mind knowing that your cooking will be safe for everyone.


Gorilla Grip Set of 3 Kitchen Food Chopping Boards

Best Choice For Its Versatility

Gorilla Grip Set of 3 Kitchen Food Chopping Boards

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What Makes It Catchy

Made from high-quality plastic, these boards feature a reversible design that allows you to chop on both sides to help prevent flavor mingling or mold development like a wooden or bamboo board.

Plus, they have deep grooves for meat juices on one side to help prevent countertop messes by catching runoff juices.

And thanks to the slip-resistant rubber border and rubber handle, these boards are designed to stay in place, even while cutting and chopping tough ingredients.

Gorilla Grip Set of 3 Kitchen Food Chopping Boards

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These chopping boards are made from a sturdy, non-porous material that will not splinter, fracture, or peel even after many washes.

3 wide chopping boards for cutting raw meats, each measuring 0.37 inches thick, are included. The biggest board is 16x 11.2 inches, the medium 13.8x 9.6 inches, and the smallest 11.8x 8 inches. You can even use them as a serving tray.

BPA Free and food grade certified, these plastic boards are dishwasher safe and they will not decay over time.

Gorilla Grip Set of 3 Kitchen Food Chopping Boards

KitchenAid Classic Nonslip Plastic Cutting Boards

Best Choice For Its Sturdiness

KitchenAid Classic Nonslip Plastic Cutting Boards

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What Makes It Catchy

These boards are designed to maintain their shape and are gentle on knives, making them durable and long-lasting.

With a non slip edge, these boards will provide stability and control while you're prepping your meals, whether you are carving meat, or need to cut, slice, dice, mince, or chop.

And because they're non-absorbent and reversible, you'll get twice the cutting surface with each board.

KitchenAid Classic Nonslip Plastic Cutting Boards

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This cutting board is made from polypropylene plastic that is nonabsorbent and BPA-free. It features deep juice grooves all around to catch excess liquids. Unlike some other cutting boards for meat with hard to clean grooves, these grooves are wide enough, making cleanup a breeze.

Plus, it's dishwasher safe for even more convenience. And because the poly material is knife friendly, your blades will stay sharper longer.

When it comes to durable, easy to clean, and gentle on your knives, that's where the KitchenAid Classic Nonslip Plastic Cutting Board comes in.

KitchenAid Classic Nonslip Plastic Cutting Boards

Cutting Board For Raw Meat FAQs

There is a lot of confusion about what kind of cutting board to use for raw meat, and how to clean it. Here are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about cutting boards for raw meat.

What is the best kind of cutting board to use for raw meat? 

There are a few things you'll want to look for when choosing the right cutting board for raw meats.

  • First, the board should be made of a durable material like metal or plastic, that leaves little or (preferably) no knife marks.
  • Second, it's important to make sure that the surface is smooth so that bacteria won't be able to build up.
  • And finally, you'll want to choose a size that is appropriate for your needs.

Most experts recommend using a metal cutting board because they are tougher than plastic and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

However, it's important to make sure that you properly disinfect it between uses, no matter which material your boards are made off. You can do this by washing the boards with hot soapy water or by using a vinegar and water solution.

What is the most sanitary type of cutting board?

When it comes to choosing the best cutting board for prepping raw meat, that is most sanitary type, there are a few different options to choose from.

Plastic cutting boards - The most sanitary type of cutting board is a plastic cutting board. A plastic cutting board is the easiest to clean. It can be washed in the dishwasher or with hot, soapy water.

Metal cutting boards - are also a good choice because they are more porous than plastic and are less likely to harbor bacteria.

Wood cutting boards - are durable and knife friendly. However, because of its porous nature, bacteria can find a place to settle and grow in a wood board. Meanwhile, its porousness causes it to be more difficult to clean. Some wood boards on the other hand have natural antibacterial properties, like maple wood.

Bamboo cutting boards - are a good middle ground – they are easy to clean, but you have to be aware of the fact that bamboo is also porous, making it an attractive home for bacteria. They are not as durable as plastic or metal. However, some bamboo brands are reliable, such as Royal Craft Wood.

Glass cutting boards - are made of tempered glass, which is heat resistant and won't dull your knives. They are also non-porous, so bacteria won't be able to build up on the surface. Glass is both durable and easy to clean. However, glass cutting boards can be heavy and difficult to care and store.

Marble cutting boards - are beautiful and easy to clean. However, they can be expensive and are best used for special occasions. Similar to glass boards, these can be heavy and difficult to carry and care.

Silicone cutting boards  - have a non porous surface, are flexible and are easy to clean. They are also non-slip, so they'll stay in place while you're cutting.

Composite cutting boards - are made from phenolic resins and a combination of wood fibers. This is known as bakelite, stone wood and wood fiber laminate: fit for heavy duty use and with a non porous surface. A composite cutting board is highly durable, knife friendly and lasts a very long time.

End grain cutting boards - with end grain boards, you slice between the wood fibers. This causes your knife to stay sharper. End grain cutting boards are called “self-repairing” as those wood fibers bounce back after chopping.

There will be other boards not listed above. However, the most important thing is to choose a board that is made of a durable material and is easy to clean. Realize that after intensive use, all boards will eventually show knife marks. But the tougher the material, the less it will show. Meaning, tiny parts of the cutting board will end up in your food. 

So best bet is to go for plastic boards and composite boards, but also marble and silicone boards. Just be careful with bamboo and wooden boards, and end grain boards.

What material is best for a cutting board?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a cutting board material:

  • Sanitation: Can the material be easily sanitized? Cutting boards made from porous materials (e.g. wood, bamboo cutting boards) can harbor bacteria and should be cleaned regularly.
  • Ease of cleaning: How easy is it to clean the cutting board? Some materials (e.g. plastic, glass boards) can be easily washed in the dishwasher, while others (e.g. stone, wooden boards, butcher blocks) may require more manual labor.
  • Durability: How durable is the material? Some materials (e.g. plastic, glass, end grain boards) may chip or scratch over time, while others (e.g. stone, composite cutting boards) can last for years with proper care.

Based on these considerations, the best materials for cutting boards are plastic, glass, stone, and composite boards (composite: bakelite, wood fiber laminate). These materials can be easily sanitized and are durable enough to withstand years of use.

Can I use the same board for cutting raw meat and cooked meat?

No. Cross contamination can occur when the same cutting board is used for both raw and cooked meats, which can cause food poisoning.

It's important to use separate cutting boards for different types of food, especially if you're working with raw meat. This is because bacteria from the raw meat can contaminate the board and then spread to other foods that are later cut on the board.

To avoid cross contamination, always wash your hands and utensils thoroughly after handling raw meat, and never put cooked food on a plate that previously held raw meat.

Can I use the same cutting board for meat and chicken?

Yes, you can use the same cutting board for meat and chicken, but it is important to clean it properly in order to avoid cross contamination. 

Always wash your cutting board with soap and hot water after using it to cut meat. If you have a dishwasher, you can put your cutting board in the dishwasher.

Alternatively, you can soak your cutting board in hot water and dish washing soap for a few minutes to clean it. Be sure to rinse your cutting board well after cleaning it to make sure all of the soap is gone.

What are the disadvantages of using a wooden board for cutting raw meat?

Wooden cutting boards can be difficult to clean because they are more porous than plastic or metal. This means that bacteria can more easily become trapped in the surface of the board. 

If you choose to use a wooden board for meat, make sure that you clean it thoroughly after each use.

Should you use a wooden board for cutting raw meat?

There are pros and cons to using a wooden board for cutting raw meat.

Pros:

On the pro side, a wooden board is more porous than a plastic one, so it can absorb bacteria from raw meat. But:

Cons:

They will release them again when you cut other foods on the same board.

This is why it's important to clean a wooden cutting board well after using it with raw meat - you don't want any of those bacteria to survive and make you sick. And, a wooden board is more difficult to clean than a plastic or metal one.

So if you don't clean it properly, there is a greater risk that bacteria will remain on the board and contaminate other foods. If you're going to use a wooden board for raw meat, make sure you're vigilant about cleaning it afterwards.

The best way to clean a wooden board is to scrub it with hot soapy water, rinse it with hot water, and then air dry it. You should also disinfect it occasionally by soaking it in a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water.

Can you put raw meat on a cutting board?

Yes, you can put raw meat on a cutting board, but you need to be very careful, as you risk cross contamination. Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria that can contaminate other foods and make you sick.

So it's important to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat and to thoroughly clean any surfaces or utensils that have come into contact with it.

How do I clean a cutting board after using it for raw meat?

It's important to clean your cutting board immediately after using it for raw meat. You can do this by scrubbing it with hot soapy water or by using a vinegar and water solution. Once you've scrubbed the board, rinse it off with hot water and allow it to air dry.

What type of cutting board should you not use with meat?

You should not use a wooden cutting board with meat. When you cut raw meat on a wooden cutting board, the juices from the meat soak into the wood and can cause bacteria to grow.

This bacteria can then contaminate other food that you cut on the same board. It is best to use a plastic, metal or glass cutting board when cutting meat.

What is an unacceptable material for cutting boards?

There are a few materials that you should avoid using as cutting boards, since they can harbor bacteria and cause food poisoning. These materials include wood (especially if it's untreated), and bamboo.

Plastic is a better option than these materials, but it's still best to avoid using recycled plastic products, as they can also harbor bacteria. Thorough cleaning is always mandatory, to manage food safety in the kitchen.

Is it better to cut meat on a plastic or wood cutting board?

There are pros and cons to both options.

Plastic boards can be easily sanitized by running them through the dishwasher, while wood boards should not be put in the dishwasher because they may warp and lose their shape.

However, wood boards can be treated with a food-safe oil or wax that will help keep them from absorbing bacteria and odors. Some wood boards, like maple wood, are safer as they have antibacterial qualities.

Do bamboo cutting boards hold bacteria?

If not cleaned properly, bamboo cutting boards can hold bacteria. Bamboo is a natural material, it is porous so bacteria have space to grow. For food safety, metal, plastic boards are a better choice.

Are bamboo cutting boards safe for raw meat?

There are a few things to consider when it comes to whether or not bamboo cutting boards are safe for raw meat.

Bamboo is a porous material, which means that bacteria can easily grow and thrive on its surface. In addition, bamboo is a natural material, so there is always the potential for it to harbor harmful pathogens.

That said, if you clean your bamboo cutting board properly after each use (with hot water and soap), it should be safe to use for slicing raw meat. Just make sure to never put it in the dishwasher, as this can quickly render it unsafe for any type of food preparation.

How do you sanitize a wooden cutting board?

There a few different ways to sanitize a wooden cutting board or a bamboo cutting board. One way is to put it in the dishwasher with bleach. Another way is to use a mixture of vinegar and water. You can also use hydrogen peroxide.

How do you disinfect a wooden chopping board?

There are a few ways to disinfect a wooden chopping board. One way is to use a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Soak the board in the solution for about 5 minutes, and then rinse it off with clean water.

Another way is to use apple cider vinegar. Soak the board in vinegar for about 5 minutes, and then rinse it off with clean water. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and will help kill any bacteria or fungus on the chopping board.

What is the difference between a cutting board and a butcher block?

A cutting board is a smooth, flat surface that is used for slicing and chopping food. A butcher block is a thick piece of wood that is used for cutting raw meat.

A butcher block is usually made from hard maple or other types of hardwoods. These woods are dense and tough, making them perfect for chopping meat. Butcher blocks can also be stained or treated with a sealant to protect them from moisture and bacteria.

Cutting boards are typically made from plastic or bamboo, which are less dense than hardwoods and therefore not as tough. Wood boards and bamboo boards don't have the same antibacterial properties as a maple wood butcher block.

Why do butchers use wooden blocks?

Wooden blocks are used by butchers to protect their knives and to give them a clean cutting surface. The hardwood, like maple, is less likely to dull the blade than a metal surface, and it can be easily cleaned with a sanitizing solution.

How many types of wooden blocks are there?

There are an infinite number of types of wooden blocks. Each block is unique, just as each tree is unique. The type of wood, the grain, the color, and even the knots all combine to make a one-of-a-kind block that can never be duplicated.

How many types of wood that wooden blocks are made of?

There are many different types of wood that can be used to make wooden blocks, but the most popular types are maple, birch, and basswood. Each type of wood has its own unique characteristics that affect the way it behaves when it is cut and sanded.

For example, maple wood is known for being a hard wood that is resistant to wear and tear, while birch wood is a soft wood that is easy to cut and shape.

Which wood is most antibacterial?

Maple wood is most antibacterial. Maple wood has high levels of phenols, a type of antioxidant, which give the wood its antibacterial properties.

In fact, maple is so antibacterial that it's often used to make cutting boards and other kitchen utensils. Other types of wood with high levels of phenols include oak and black walnut.

Is it better to use wooden blocks for raw meat than plastic cutting boards?

There are pros and cons to both options. Wooden cutting boards are more affordable and can be easily cleaned with soap and water, but they can also harbor bacteria if not disinfected properly.

Plastic cutting boards are more expensive, but they can be dish-washed and even put in the freezer without fear of warping or cracking. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which type of cutting board is best for them.

What are the best knives for cutting raw meat?

Cutting raw meat can be a daunting task for even the most experienced home chef. With so many different types and sizes of knives on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the best for the job.

We'll break down the 4 main types of knives that are best suited for cutting raw meat, so you can make an informed decision next time you're in the kitchen. The four main types of knives that are best suited for cutting raw meat are carbon steel knife (chef's knives), Santoku knives, boning knives, and slicing knives.

Carbon steel knives (or chef's knives) are versatile all-purpose knives that can be used for a variety of tasks, including chopping, slicing, and dicing. They typically have a curved blade that tapers to a point, which makes them well-suited for cutting through tough meat. Check out more details and select your best carbon steel knives or affordable chef knife under $100 at Casa Catalog's blog post.

Santoku knives are similar to chef's knives in terms of versatility, but they typically have a straighter edge and a more pointed tip. This makes them better suited for precision tasks like slicing sushi or carving a roast chicken. Read on this article from Casa Catalog and pick your Santoku knife to cut meat like a butcher.

Boning knives have much thinner blades than chef's or Santoku knives, which makes them ideal for removing bones from raw meat. They also have a sharp point that can be used to make shallow cuts and incisions. Check out the 5 top picks of best boning knife from Casa Catalog.

Brisket knives (Slicing knives) have long, thin blades that are designed specifically for slicing meat. They typically have serrated edges, which make them ideal for slicing through tough cuts of meat such as steak or pork chops. Check out for more details and select your best brisket knife on Casa Catalog's post.

When it comes to cutting raw meat, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of knife you use will depend on the task at hand. However, in general, chef's knives, Santoku knives, boning knives, and slicing knives are all good choices for cutting raw meat. So next time you're in the kitchen, be sure to choose the right knife for the job!

The Best Cutting Board For Raw Meat For You

So, which of these cutting boards is your favorite? Do you think that the design or material made a difference in your opinion?

Be sure to check out our other blog posts for reviews on other kitchen appliances like blenders and food processors.

We want to make sure that you have all the information you need to make the best choices for your home kitchen.

Thanks for reading!

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