Iroko Wood: Why It Is the Best Material for Cutting Boards
What Is Iroko Wood?
Iroko (Milicia excelsa) is a tropical hardwood native to West Africa, often called "African Teak" due to its similar properties to genuine teak. It has been used for centuries in shipbuilding, outdoor furniture, and high-end woodworking because of its exceptional durability and natural moisture resistance.
Why Iroko Excels as a Cutting Board Material
Natural moisture resistance: Iroko contains natural oils that repel water, making it resistant to warping, swelling, and cracking — the most common problems with other wood cutting boards.
Antibacterial properties: Like teak, iroko has natural compounds that inhibit bacterial growth on the surface, making it a hygienic choice for food preparation.
Knife-friendly: The wood has a medium hardness (Janka rating of approximately 1,260 lbf) that is gentle on knife edges while still being durable enough for daily use.
Splinter-free: Properly finished iroko develops a smooth, tight grain that does not splinter during cutting — an important safety feature.
Iroko vs Other Wood Types
- Iroko vs Bamboo: Iroko is a true hardwood with natural oils; bamboo is a grass that requires chemical adhesives in board form
- Iroko vs Maple: Both are excellent for cutting boards, but iroko has superior moisture resistance
- Iroko vs Acacia: Iroko is denser and more consistent in grain pattern
The Velgrina Iroko Board
The Velgrina 3-in-1 Iroko Cutting Board takes this exceptional wood and pairs it with a removable food-grade stainless steel panel. The iroko side features an integrated juice groove for containing liquids during food prep. It is the perfect combination of natural beauty and modern functionality.
See the full Cutting Board Collection for all available materials and sizes.