What material is suitable for food preparation surfaces?

The suitability of food preparation surfaces is essential to ensure food safety and prevent contamination. Non-porous materials such as stainless steel are ideal because they do not absorb liquids, making them easier to clean and sanitize. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion, highly durable, and does not retain bacteria or odors, which are critical factors in food handling environments.

In contrast, other materials like wood and plywood can have porous surfaces that can trap bacteria and food particles, which might lead to cross-contamination. Glass can be more difficult to maintain in terms of preventing breakage, and while it is non-porous, it is not commonly used for all food preparation tasks because it may not be as sturdy as stainless steel in high-demand scenarios. Therefore, stainless steel is the recommended choice for food preparation surfaces due to its ability to provide a clean, safe, and sturdy environment for food handling.