Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about caring for wood with Joe Mama's. Can't find your answer? Get in touch.
Is Joe Mama’s wood care food-safe?
Yes. Every kitchen product is made from food-grade ingredients listed for food-contact use — food-grade white mineral oil (FDA 21 CFR 178.3620(a)) and beeswax (FDA 21 CFR 184.1973). Once you have buffed off the excess, the finish is non-toxic and safe for surfaces that touch food. The one exception is our Tool & Cast-Iron Wax, which is a workshop product and is NOT food-safe.
What is Joe Mama’s wood care made from?
Honest, simple ingredients: beeswax, food-grade white mineral oil, carnauba and jojoba — depending on the product. There are no solvents, turpentine or aromatic hydrocarbons. Everything is hand-blended in small batches in Cape Town.
How often should I treat my cutting board?
For oils, re-apply weekly for the first month on a new board, then monthly or whenever the wood looks dry. For waxes and finishes, re-apply whenever the wood looks dry or water no longer beads on the surface. Boards that are washed often need treating more frequently.
Should I use cutting board oil or wax?
Oil penetrates deep to rehydrate thirsty timber and is ideal for regular maintenance and new or very dry boards. Wax sits on the surface to seal in that moisture and add water resistance. Many people use both: oil first to feed the wood, then wax to seal it.
Where can I buy Joe Mama’s?
Joe Mama’s is sold exclusively through Power Tool Services at toolservices.co.za. Browse the range here, then order from Power Tool Services.
What is the shelf life and how should I store it?
Typical shelf life is 24 months from manufacture. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and replace the lid after use.