Reversible Cutting Board for Two Styles of Cutting
Written: Mar 24 '04 (Updated Mar 24 '04)
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Pros: Cutting board has lasted a long time, stain resistant, reversible for two different cutting surfaces
Cons: Soft surface shows knife hatching, board eventually shows stains
The Bottom Line: The Bottom Line would like Santoprene edges to prevent it from sliding.
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| dlstewart's Full Review: Trudeau Polypropylene Cutting Board |
I own several cutting boards, and some of them definitely work better than others. The Trudeau Cutting Board has been a staple in my kitchen for over five years. The small 13" x 10" size makes it handy for counter and table use.
What the Trudeau Cutting Board Looks Like
This white cutting board is rectangular and made from polypropylene, which is a durable material that won't splinter, warp or dull knives. The board is 1/2-inch thick and 13"x10" in size. The four corners are encased in Santoprene (a soft rubber-like material). These Santoprene triangular-shape pieces that measure about 1" x 3/4". The rubber-like corners are designed to prevent the cutting board from skidding on flat surfaces.
One side of the board is completely flat with a narrow groove about 5/8-inch in from the board edge. The other side of the cutting board is flat on one half and ribbed on the other half. There are 4-inch grooves between six ribs that are slightly arced. These grooves lead to a reservoir that measures 8 1/2" x 1 1/4" x 1/4" deep. A narrow groove about 5/8-inch in from the board edge runs into this reservoir.
My Experience Using this Cutting Board
The side of the board that is completely flat is ideal for cutting vegetables, fruit and breads. Vegetable and fruit juices flow into the 5/8-inch groove along the edge of the board, keeping the liquid from overflowing onto the table or counter surface. This side of the cutting board is showing its five years of use. The white polypropylene surface is stained in the center and showing hatch marks where knife blades have cut. However, the board is not splintering and is still safe to use. Running my hand over the board, it feels smooth with just a hint of texture where the knives have cut.
The other side of the cutting board, with its ribbing and juice reservoir, is ideal for cutting meat. Juices flow down the 4-inch long paths between the ribbed sections and enter the reservoir at the end of the board. The six ribbed sections are great for holding and cutting meat out of the juice, too. This side of the board shows a bit of staining but not much discoloration. Like the other side of the board, the surface shows knife cuts but the cutting board is not splintering and is safe to use.
Both sides of the board lay flat on the table or counter. The soft Santoprene rubber-like edges anchor the cutting board in place. I have not had a problem with the board sliding. The rubber- like feet appear small, but they do their job.
In the five years I have used this cutting board, the board is still flat. It has not warped and shows no sign of doing so. This is a sturdy cutting board. When I have dropped it (oh yes, I do have my clumsy moments!), the board remained in one piece. It is solid and has never cracked or chipped.
This cutting board is advertised as being stain resistant, but I've always felt that phrase is open to interpretation. The board has resisted stains; however, five years of consistent use has overwhelmed the stain resistant properties. While the stains are not beautiful, it does not bother me to use a stained cutting board.
Likes
* Compact size fits well in space-restricted areas
* Rubber-like corners hold board in place while cutting
* Juice reservoir draws juices away from the cutting area
* Reversible for two different cutting surfaces
* Easy to store
* Easy to clean
Dislikes
* Surface shows knife marks
* Even though stain resistant, board surface does stain
Cleaning the Cutting Board
The Trudeau cutting board is easy to clean. I wash the board using Dawn dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge. I've never had to soak the board to remove food. Even though the manufacturer says the cutting board is dishwasher safe, I have always hand-washed the board and let it air dry. I have never tried to bleach the stains out of this cutting board.
Purchasing the Trudeau Cutting Board
A cooking supply store was going out of business, so this board was purchased at a discount. I think it cost about $9.00 (trying to remember a price I paid five years ago is hurting my brain!). Amazon.com is currently selling this same cutting board for $14.99.
Summary
This Trudeau Cutting Board was certainly worth the money I paid for it. It has lasted a long time. On a subconscious level, though, I worry about the knife scarring on the board. Even though the board is not obviously chipping or splintering, I have to wonder if eventually some of the polypropylene material will end up in the food I am cutting. Overall, though, this cutting board has been an excellent investment and has held up well under consistent use.
I hope you have found this review useful.
Enjoy your day,
Dawn
http://dlstewart.com
Additional Information
Trudeau Corporation
10440 Woodward Avenue
Chicago, IL 60517
Toll Free Phone # 1-800-878-3328
Please read my other reviews
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Rubbermaid 3-Drawer File Tower on Wheels
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Braun Coffee Grinder (and flax seed)
Le Creuset Bean Pot with recipe
Smidgen Set of 3 Measuring Spoons to measure a Smidgen, Dash and Pinch
Oneidea Premier Flatware
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Maytag Gemini Double Oven Range
Copyright 2004 Dawn L. Stewart
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 9.00
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