A+ Product: Bee's Oil by Tree Spirit

I'm by no means a product tester. There are folks much better at that than I am, namely Cook's Illustrated and Consumer Reports. However, every so often I run into a product that proves indispensable in my kitchen. On those occasions, I'd like to use this blog to tell you about them.

The Problem/Task: Seasoning a Wood Cutting Board
I recently received a very nice, very expensive beautiful wood cutting board as a gift. Wood boards can be used for just about anything if properly "seasoned" with food-grade mineral oil (not vegetable oil...it goes rancid). However, I've had the hardest time seasoning the board while still keeping it clean during everyday use. I've tried applying mineral oil every day and it just doesn't soak enough in to stand-up to the next washing.

Product Solution: Bee's Oil
While shopping at The Paderno Store in Freeport, Maine, I happened across a product called Bee's Oil. It's made by Tree Spirit, a company that also makes traditional mineral oil. However, this product is made with a blend of mineral oil and natural bee's wax. It comes in a plastic tub and you apply it like car wax. Using a paper towel or cloth, apply the wax to a dry board and rub it in as much as you can. Wait 5-10 minutes and wipe the excess off, polishing the board. The woman at the store recommended applying it once a day for a week, once a week for a month, and once a month or as needed thereafter.

I have to say this product is fantastic. My hardwood board has never looked better and I finally have it at a point where I'm comfortable cutting meats and poultry on it and cleaning it up with a sponge and some antibacterial soap and water.